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February 2015
CAAP 48-1(1)
Fatigue Management for Flight Crew Members
This CAAP will be of interest to: all holders of an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) or
Part 141 certificate
all holders of a flight crew licence.
Why this publication was written This CAAP provides guidance on meeting the AOC holder and flight crew member (FCM) obligations in relation to fatigue management, required under CAO 48.1 Instrument 2013 from 30 April 2016, or earlier if an Operator transitions to the new rules before this date.
This CAAP does not cover operational aspects specific to Ultra-Long Range operations, which are operations involving flight times greater than 16 hours or flight duty periods greater than 18 hours and which require special considerations within an fatigue risk management system (FRMS).
Status of this CAAP This CAAP has been produced in accordance with the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) safety-related functions under Subsection 9 (2) of the Civil Aviation Act 1988 (the Act).
This is the first revision of this CAAP. It adds further guidance on the practical application of CAO 48.1 Instrument 2013 (predominately contained in new Appendices A, B and C), and makes minor editorial changes.
Changes to the content of this CAAP are denoted by a change bar (as noted to the right of this paragraph).
For further information For application and policy advice contact your local CASA office by phone on 131 757.
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This Civil Aviation Advisory Publication (CAAP) provides guidance, interpretation and explanation on complying with the Civil Aviation Regulations 1988 (CAR 1988) or a Civil
Aviation Order (CAO).
This CAAP provides advisory information to the aviation industry in support of a particular CAR 1988 or CAO. Ordinarily, the CAAP will provide additional ‘how to’ information not found in the source CAR 1988, or elsewhere.
A CAAP is not intended to clarify the intent of a CAR 1988, which must be clear from a reading of the regulation itself, nor may the CAAP contain mandatory requirements not contained in legislation.
Note: Read this advisory publication in conjunction with the appropriate regulations/orders.
CAAP 48-1(1): Fatigue management for flight crew members 2
Unless specified otherwise, all subregulations, regulations and appendices referenced in this CAAP are references to the CAO 48.1 Instrument 2013.
February 2015
Contents
1. Acronyms 3
2. Definitions 4
3. Introduction 7
4. Operator obligations – fitness for duty 9
5. Operator obligations – setting limitations 12
6. Operator obligations – responsibilities of personnel 13
7. Operator obligations – record keeping 13
8. Operator obligations – determination of home base 14
9. Operator obligations – publishing of rosters 15
10. Operator obligations – additional obligations relating to FCMs under Appendices 2 to 6 (Tier 2 Operators) 16
11. Individual obligations – fitness for duty – individual cognitive and physical fitness 22
12. Individual obligations – disclosure to an Operator 28
APPENDIX A Development of operations manual limits and procedures 30
APPENDIX B Operations under multiple appendices 31
APPENDIX C Appendices limits and requirements 36
C1. Sleep opportunity before an FDP or standby 37 C2. FDP and flight time limits 41 C3. Increase in FDP limits by split duty 44 C4. Increase in FDP and flight time limits in an augmented crew operation 47 C5. Delayed reporting time 48 C6. Reassignment and extension 55 C7. Standby limits 59 C8. Positioning 61 C9. ODP limits 62 C10. Limit on cumulative flight time 70 C11. Limit on cumulative duty time 72 C12. Limits on late night operations (LNOs) 73
APPENDIX D Determination of acclimatisation 75
APPENDIX E Example Fatigue Occurrence Report 78
APPENDIX F Hazard identification and associated procedures (Tier 2) 79
APPENDIX G Alertness consideration table 81
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The relevant regulations and other references
CAO 48.1 Instrument 2013 - All reference in this CAAP to CAO 48.1 are references to this
instrument, which can be found on the ComLaw website at:
http://www.comlaw.gov.au/Details/F2014C01081
CASA Fatigue Management webpages, available at: www.casa.gov.au/fatigue/
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) FRMS Implementation Guide for Operators,
available at:
http://www.icao.int/safety/fatiguemanagement/Pages/DocumentsandToolkits.aspx
CAAP 5.59-1(0) – Teaching and Assessing Single Pilot Human Factors and Threat and
Error Management.
CAAP 5.59a-1(0) – Competency Based Training and Assessment in the Aviation
Environment.
CAAP SMS-3(1) – Non-Technical Skills Training and Assessment for Regular Public
Transport Operations.
1. Acronyms
ALARP as low as reasonably practicable
AOC Air Operator’s Certificate
CAAP Civil Aviation Advisory Publication
CAO Civil Aviation Order
CAR 1988 Civil Aviation Regulations 1988
CASA Civil Aviation Safety Authority
CASR 1998 Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998
FCM Flight Crew Member
FDP Flight Duty Period
FRMS Fatigue Risk Management System
FTL Flight and Duty Time Limits
ICAO International Civil Aviation Organization
LNO Late night operation
ODP Off-duty period
PVT Psychomotor Vigilance Test
REM Rapid Eye Movement
SMS Safety Management System
SSAA Safety Sensitive Aviation Activity
WOCL Window of Circadian Low
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2. Definitions
ACCESS – no restriction on, or impediment to, an FCM’s immediate and actual use of a necessity.
ACCLIMATISED TIME – the local time at the location where an FCM is acclimatised.
ADAPTATION PERIOD – a continuous off-duty period for an FCM to become acclimatised to a particular location.
ADEQUATE SUSTENANCE – food and drink (including clean drinking water) in quantities sufficient to reasonably sustain a person in the person’s circumstances.
AUGMENTED CREW OPERATION – an aircraft operation in which one or more FCMs, additional to the minimum required number of FCMs, are engaged in a flight to allow one or more FCMs to be relieved of duty during flight time.
CALL OUT – being required by an AOC holder to commence a duty period during a standby.
COMPLEX OPERATION – an operation that involves 1 or more of the following:
a. a flight duty period (FDP) with a displacement time of 2 hours or more
b. an augmented crew operation
c. an FDP that commences when the FCM is:
i. in an unknown state of acclimatisation
or
ii. acclimatised to a location other than the location where the FDP commences.
CONSECUTIVE – a continuous, unbroken, period of time for the duration of the hours or days mentioned.
CREW REST FACILITY – a facility on board an aircraft available to an FCM for them to obtain rest or sleep, and classified as follows:
a. Class 1 means a bunk or other surface that:
i. allows for a horizontal sleeping position
ii. is located separate from both the flight deck and passenger compartment in an
area that:
A. is temperature-controlled
B. allows the FCM to control light
C. provides isolation from noise and disturbance
b. Class 2 means a seat in an aircraft cabin that:
i. allows for a horizontal or near-horizontal sleeping position
ii. is separated from passengers by at least a curtain that provides darkness and
some noise mitigation
iii. is reasonably free from disturbance by passengers or crew members
c. Class 3 means a seat in an aircraft cabin or flight deck that:
i. reclines at least 40 degrees from the vertical plane
ii. provides leg and foot support in the reclined position.
CRUISE – the period of a flight from not less than 30 minutes after take-off until not less than 60 minutes before the estimated time of landing.
CUMULATIVE DUTY – the progressive sum of duty periods.
CUMULATIVE FLIGHT TIME – the progressive sum of flight time, excluding flight time accrued during recreational private operations.
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DAY – the period between local midnight at home base and the subsequent local midnight at home base.
DISPLACEMENT TIME – the difference in local time between:
a. the place where an FCM commenced an FDP
b. the place where the FCM undertakes an off-duty period following the FDP.
DUTY – any task that a person who is employed as an FCM is required to carry out associated with the business of an AOC holder.
DUTY PERIOD – a period of time that starts when an FCM is required by an AOC holder to report for duty, and ends when the FCM is free of all duties.
FATIGUE – a physiological state of reduced alertness or capability to perform mental or physical tasks, which:
a. may impair the ability of the FCM to safely operate an aircraft
b. is caused by 1 or more of the following:
i. the FCM’s lack of sleep
ii. the FCM’s extended wakefulness
iii. the FCM’s circadian phase at any relevant time
iv. the FCM’s workload of mental activities, or physical activities at any relevant time.
FATIGUE RISK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (FRMS) – a comprehensive system for managing fatigue-related risks that:
a. includes all of the elements set out in Appendix 7
b. is approved for implementation by CASA.
FLIGHT DUTY PERIOD (FDP) – a period of time that:
a. starts when a person is required, by an AOC holder, to report for a duty period in which
they undertake one or more flights as part of an operating crew
b. ends not less than 15 minutes after the end of the person’s final flight as an FCM.
HOME BASE – the location, assigned by the AOC holder to the FCM, from where the FCM normally starts and ends a duty period or a series of duty periods.
LATE NIGHT OPERATION – an operation where an FDP includes more than 30 minutes between the hours of 2300 and 0530 (local time) at the location where the FCM is acclimatised.
LOCAL NIGHT – a period of 8 consecutive hours that includes the hours between 2200 and 0500 (local time).
MULTI-PILOT OPERATION – an aircraft operation conducted under multi-pilot procedures contained in the AOC holder’s operations manual.
OFF-DUTY PERIOD (ODP) – a period of time during which an FCM is free of all duties and standby associated with their employment.
OPERATOR – either an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) holder or, in the case of a Part 141 flying training school, the certificate holder
RECREATIONAL PRIVATE OPERATION – flying conducted by an FCM in a personal capacity, and at the FCM’s leisure. A flight conducted by an FCM as a private operation is not a recreational private operation if it is conducted for, or on behalf of, an entity (regardless of whether or not the entity is an AOC holder).
REPORTING TIME – the time assigned to an FCM to report for an FDP.
ROSTER – a list made available to an FCM by an AOC holder, setting out the times when the FCM is assigned to undertake duties or standby.
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SLEEP OPPORTUNITY – a period of time during an off-duty period when an FCM: a. is not meeting the reasonable requirements of bodily functioning, such as:
i. eating
ii. drinking
iii. toileting
iv. washing
v. dressing; and
b. has access to suitable sleeping accommodation without, under normal circumstances,
being interrupted by any requirement of the AOC holder.
SPLIT-DUTY REST PERIOD – a predefined period of time during which an FCM:
a. has access to suitable resting accommodation or suitable sleeping accommodation;
and
b. is relieved of all duties associated with their employment by the AOC holder.
Note: for Appendix 5, the period of time may or may not be predefined. STANDBY – a period of time during which an FCM:
a. is required by an AOC holder to hold themselves available for duties
b. has access to suitable sleeping accommodation.
SUITABLE RESTING ACCOMMODATION – a comfortable resting area that:
a. has a comfortable temperature and minimal noise levels
b. contains at least a comfortable chair
c. provides access to adequate sustenance at times appropriate to the duty
requirements.
SUITABLE SLEEPING ACCOMMODATION – accommodation not within an aircraft, consisting of facilities conducive to sleep, including the following:
a. a comfortable self-contained room or compartment
b. a single occupancy, at the discretion of the FCM
c. clean, tidy and hygienic facilities
d. a bed that is comfortable, flat and horizontal, allowing the occupant to sleep on their
stomach, back or either side
e. minimum noise levels (including low occurrence of random noise)
f. facilities to control light, temperature and ventilation
g. access to adequate sustenance.
TIER 1 – a very simple prescriptive system, with relatively restrictive flight and duty time limits.
TIER 2 – more flexible limits, but with additional Operator obligations (such as hazard identification and continuous monitoring).
TIME ZONE – a defined region of earth with a uniform local time that differs by one hour, or by part of one hour, from the uniform local time of an adjoining region of the earth.
UNFORESEEN OPERATIONAL CIRCUMSTANCE – an unplanned exceptional event that becomes evident after the commencement of the FDP (i.e. un-forecast weather, equipment malfunction, or air traffic delay).
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3. Introduction
CAO 48.1 outlines the requirements for fatigue management for FCMs. Within CAO 48.1, 3.1there are a number of obligations that AOC holders (Operators) and flight crew licence holders (individuals) must meet. This CAAP provides guidance in meeting those obligations.
The rules for fatigue management for flight crew members (FCMs) provides Operators with 3.2the choice of which tier within a three-tier regime best suits them, based on their requirements for flexibility and their capacity to manage fatigue-related risks resulting from that level of flexibility:
Tier 1 (Appendix 1) – sets prescriptive flight and duty time limitations without the need for
risk management processes; however, these limitations are relatively restrictive.
Tier 2 (Appendices 2 through to 6) – allows greater flexibility with less restrictive flight and
duty time limitations, but requires Operators to have in place; risk management processes,
continuous monitoring processes and a training program for FCMs.
Tier 3 (Appendix 7) – is the most comprehensive fatigue risk management approach,
known as a Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS). An FRMS is a data-driven means
of continuously monitoring and managing fatigue-related safety risks, based upon scientific
principles and knowledge as well as operational experience, that aims to ensure relevant
personnel are performing at adequate levels of alertness.
Table 1: Three tiers of compliance
This CAAP is intended to provide guidance primarily for complying with Tier 1 and Tier 2 3.3requirements. Some of this material is also likely to be relevant to an AOC holder wishing to apply for an FRMS or operating under an FRMS.
For Operators choosing to develop and implement an FRMS under Tier 3, guidance on this 3.4is contained in the ICAO FRMS Implementation Guide for Operators. The information in this CAAP is relevant guidance to Operators about generic fatigue management principles, and while the ICAO
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guidance sets the standards that CASA will apply when approving an FRMS, CASA strongly urges Operators to apply the content of this CAAP to any FRMS they may produce.
Operators who are unable to develop and maintain an FRMS in accordance with the ICAO 3.5guidance, will be required to operate to the relevant appendix in Tier 1 or Tier 2. ICAO expects to update its FRMS guidance as operational and scientific knowledge of FRMS advances—CASA expects Operators will ensure their FRMS remains current with developments in the field of FRMS.
In order to provide readers with guidance relevant to their interests, the body of this CAAP 3.6is split into two main parts:
AOC holder (Operator) obligations
flight crew licence holder (individual) obligations.
The appendices then cover more specific areas of guidance, such as how to interpret the 3.7limits and requirements of CAO 48.1.
Operator obligations 3.8
Under subsection 14, all holders of an AOC have a series of obligations. 3.8.1
Above all, an AOC holder must not require an FCM to operate an aircraft if, considering the 3.8.2circumstances of the flight to be undertaken, the holder has reason to believe that the FCM is suffering from, or is likely to suffer from, fatigue which may so impair the FCM’s performance that the safety of the operation may be affected.
The Operator also has obligations in relation to: 3.8.3
documenting flight and duty time limitations in their operations manual
documenting the responsibilities of their employees in their operations manual
provision for opportunities for FCMs to consume meals
record keeping and reporting
for public transport services Operators—determination of home bases for its FCMs
roster publishing.
Tier 2 Operators have additional obligations. Under subsection 15, these Operators must 3.8.4have the following documented within their operations manual:
procedures for hazard identification
procedures for determining limitations that take into account potential hazards
procedures for the continuous monitoring and evaluation of policies, limitations and
practices
transition procedures (when operations under multiple appendices are conducted).
Tier 2 Operators are also required to have initial and recurrent fatigue training programs for 3.8.5their FCMs.
Individual obligations 3.9
Under subsection 16, it is a condition on each flight crew licence that the licence holder 3.9.1must not operate an aircraft if, considering the circumstances of the flight to be undertaken, they have reason to believe that they are suffering from, or is likely to suffer from, fatigue which may so impair performance that the safety of the operation may be affected.
An FCM employed by an AOC holder must, before any flight duty period (FDP), disclose to 3.9.2the AOC holder anything affecting the FCM, or connected with the FDP, which they have reason to believe may affect their ability to meet the AOC holder’s fatigue risk management policies; or the
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limits and requirements of the appendix or appendices that the holder has chosen to apply to the FCM.
4. Operator obligations – fitness for duty
Selecting suitable sleeping accommodation for off-duty periods 4.1
Operators should be mindful of the requirement for FCMs to have prior sleep opportunity 4.1.1before undertaking an FDP or standby. This sleep opportunity must be at suitable sleeping accommodation. This may be at home or at another sleeping facility (e.g. a hotel).
Sleep quality (its restorative value) depends on going through unbroken sleep (non-rapid 4.1.2eye movement [non-REM]/REM) cycles. The more sleep is fragmented by waking up; the less restorative value sleep has in terms of how people feel and function when they wake up the next day. Operators should consider procedures that minimise interruptions to FCMs’ sleep. Off-duty periods (ODPs) should include defined blocks of time (sleep opportunities), during which FCMs are not contacted. All relevant personnel (e.g. crew rostering personnel) should be aware of these protected sleep opportunities. Operators should also develop procedures to protect FCMs’ sleep at layover facilities.
The physical ergonomics of sleeping and resting facilities should be taken into account, in 4.1.3order to ensure the staff can obtain suitable recovery (from fatigue) and be fit for the next duty. It is suggested that Operators consider the work ergonomic factors, as well as the facilities available in the rest/sleep area, when managing fatigue in operations.
Location of sleeping accommodation 4.2
Operators should carefully consider and manage how the location of sleeping 4.2.1accommodation may affect sleep quality. When considering a location for suitability, Operators should consider the following factors:
travel distance to and from the facility
transport options
potential interruptions/disruptions
phone calls
cleaning
room service
maintenance work
temperature control
crew sharing options
lighting control
social cues (e.g. local meal times, arrival/departure times of other guests)
security at each location.
Operators should also consider how the resting/sleeping facility location may interact with 4.2.2time zones and time zone changes from where the last duty ended to where the next duty will commence. For example, having layover accommodation an hour away from the sign-on base could:
place it in a different time zone
impact on social cues around meal times and sleep/awakening times
require FCMs to adjust accordingly to the local time.
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The difference between needing to wake at 0500 hours or 0600 hours may be the 4.2.3difference between the effects of the window of circadian low (WOCL) impacting on performance throughout the day or not.
Acclimatisation 4.3
‘Acclimatisation’ is a complex issue. While CAO 48.1 defines acclimatisation, specifically 4.3.1when an FCM is considered to be in an unknown state of acclimatisation and the method to become reacclimatised, it is important that Operators understand how the impact of crossing time zones and how time-zone adaptation can be individualised.
For the purpose of the rules pertaining to fatigue management for FCMs, ‘acclimatisation’ is 4.3.2a formal term applicable to Operators complying with Appendix 2. Whether an FCM is in a known state of acclimatisation, or an unknown state of acclimatisation, determines the maximum FDP and minimum ODPs for an FCM. While Appendices 4 and 5 do not specifically address the impact of crossing time zones, the likely increase in fatigue risk from doing so must be adequately managed.
Generally, the responsibility for managing the effects of time zone changes and 4.3.3acclimatisation is shared between the Operator and the FCM. The Operator should provide adequate fatigue training, as well as tools for staff to use when assessing their own alertness.
Note: the Operator must not require an FCM to commence a duty when they are not fit for that duty.
The FCM has an obligation to apply this training to their situation when deciding their 4.3.4
fitness for duty. FCMs should report to their Operator when they feel unfit for duty after crossing time zones. The Operator can then use these reports to assess whether their limitations and fatigue policies are adequate. Even though the applicable limitations and policies may be in accordance with CAO 48.1, the Operator must consider the particular operational characteristics in order to ensure, as far as possible, FCMs are fit for duty.
Appendix D to this CAAP provides various examples for determining an FCM’s state of 4.3.5acclimatisation for the purposes of CAO 48.1. These scenarios should be considered as guidance only, and may not guarantee that an FCM is actually acclimatised, or in an unknown state of acclimatisation, as described.
Augmented crew 4.4
Augmented crew refers to a flight crew comprising more than the minimum number of 4.4.1FCMs required to operate the aircraft as per the Flight Manual.
Augmenting the crew is a strategy Operators can use to assist with managing crew 4.4.2alertness. With appropriate procedures in the AOC holder’s operations manual, and appropriate on-board resting facilities, crew can rotate in-flight rest times and utilise facilities to manage their alertness, and mitigate against the effects of fatigue. When developing procedures AOC holders should consider:
designating a pilot responsible for making command decisions at all times when the pilot in
command (PIC) is utilising in-flight rest
a requirement for a comprehensive briefing prior to FCMs rotating through in-flight rest
direction to crew that the in-flight rest requirements do not take priority over the need to
optimise the crew experience levels on the flight deck for managing unplanned operational
threats.
Sleep inertia defines a period of transitory hypovigilance, confusion, disorientation of 4.4.3
behaviour and impaired cognitive and sensory-motor performance that immediately follows
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awakening. 1 There are various studies that have described the effects of sleep inertia on performance, particularly when awakening from deep sleep. Operators and FCMs should be aware of, and manage, the effect of sleep inertia in flight operations.
It is important that Operators are aware of, and consider, individual variability in alertness 4.4.4and circadian (time zone/body clock) adjustment when using augmented crews.
FCMs have different sleep needs and different performance effects from countermeasures 4.4.5(e.g. caffeine) each of which should be taken into consideration. Additional crew will still become fatigued even when they are not in an operational role. Operators need to ensure that FCMs receive training regarding the appropriate use of augmented crews and in-flight crew rest facilities.
Appendix 2 stipulates the minimum time an FCM requires the in-flight crew rest facility to be 4.4.6available; however, these times are only minimums and adequate alertness may require a substantially longer time be available to gain adequate in-flight rest/sleep. As a guide, the augmented crew FDP limits in Appendix 2 assume that the majority of the FDP is flight time and the available rest/sleep time (cruise phase) is fully utilised and is reasonably evenly distributed amongst FCMs. The number of sectors is limited so that an augmented crew operation is only undertaken in FDPs containing sufficiently long sector lengths to allow adequate time for rest/sleep.
In-flight rest facilities need careful design and consideration in order to permit adequate 4.4.7rest and sleep for crew. Classes of in-flight crew rest facilities are defined in CAO 48.1. When determining appropriate rest facility specifications, the following factors should be taken into account:
relief from postural constraints of the work (e.g. prolonged periods strapped to a flight seat)
noise
physical configurations
locations
privacy needs
lighting
vibration
micro-climate (air flow, ventilation, temperature, temperature gradient, humidity)
hygiene (avoidance of pathogens, shielding)
communications
restraint mechanisms
access
evacuation procedures
requirements for emergency equipment.
Fatigue occurrence reporting 4.5
The willingness of FCMs to participate in fatigue occurrence reporting will reflect their level 4.5.1of understanding of their roles and responsibilities in relation to fatigue risk management and their confidence that the purpose of the data collection is to improve safety. An effective fatigue reporting system requires an open and fair reporting culture. It needs to:
use forms that are easy to access, complete and submit
1 Studies include: Ferrara, M & DeGennaro, L. 2000. The sleep inertia phenomenon during sleep-wake
transition: Theoretical and operational issues. Aviation, space and environment medicine, 71(8), 843-848.Caldwell, J., Prazinko, B. & Caldwell, J. (2002). Fatigue in aviation sustained operations, the utility of napping, and the problem of sleep inertia. Paper presented at the Research and Technology Organisation
Human Factors Medicine Lecture Series, Fort Tucker, Alabama.
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have clearly understood rules about confidentiality of reported information
have clearly understandable voluntary reporting protections
include regular analysis of the reports
provide regular feedback to crew members about decisions or actions taken based on the
reports and lessons learned.
A fatigue report form (either paper-based or electronic) should include information on: 4.5.2
recent sleep
duty history (the minimum should be the last three days)
time of day of the event
measurement of different aspects of fatigue-related impairment (for example, validated
alertness or sleepiness scales).
The report should also provide space for written commentary so that the person reporting 4.5.3can explain the context of the event and give their view of why it happened. An example of a fatigue occurrence report form can be found in Appendix E to this CAAP.
Management should encourage crew members to complete and submit a fatigue 4.5.4occurrence report in the following instances:
Through the voluntary reporting system when an FDP has not commenced or is not
completed, due to fatigue (either entirely or in part). This includes when the FDP is
completed but only after some mitigating action. For example:
adding an extra crew member
reducing the workload of the duty
delaying the reporting time
creating the opportunity for a nap
increasing supervision/monitoring.
Through the voluntary reporting system following an FDP, if the FCM believes (upon
reflection) that the level of fatigue they, or other crew members, were suffering meant
sufficient safety margins had not been maintained throughout the flight(s).
Through the voluntary reporting system, when the FCM notices something in their
operating environment that is likely to impact on their, or other crew members’, alertness to
such an extent that safety margins could be reduced to unsatisfactory levels.
Through the occurrence reporting system, when an incident or event has occurred where
fatigue may, or may not, have been a contributing safety factor. To enable this, it is
preferable for there to be a fatigue reporting facility or prompt on the Operator’s occurrence
reporting mechanism. In these instances it is advisable to provide a 72 hour sleep history.
5. Operator obligations – setting limitations
An Operator’s operations manual needs to document the limitations applicable to all FCMs. 5.1These limitations must not exceed those contained in the relevant appendix or appendices.
CASA will not accept an operations manual that simply refers to the limitations contained in 5.2CAO 48.1. The operations manual must explicitly specify the limitations applicable to the Operator’s FCMs; these become ‘hard’ limits. This requirement allows all FCMs to be aware of their limitations.
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Fatigue risk may not be sufficiently managed by relying entirely on limiting the hours of duty 5.3and commensurately providing for minimum length ODPs. After the application of these limits, there may be further need for an Operator to control fatigue risk due to such things as:
individual variability
operational environment
workload (amongst other factors).
An Operator choosing to operate in Tier 2 must have hazard identification processes in 5.4place that are then used to determine Operator-specific limitations as well as any other controls. Refer to Section 11 of this CAAP for detailed guidance about setting limitations for Tier 2 Operators.
For transparency, if an Operator has no intention to conduct certain operations available 5.5under an applicable appendix, the Operator should include a statement in their operations manual acknowledging this. For example, if an Operator conducting operations under Appendix 2 does not have any intention to conduct augmented crew operations; this should be stated in their operations manual.
6. Operator obligations – responsibilities of personnel
The Operator needs to document the responsibilities of personnel so that staff are aware of 6.1their responsibilities and accountabilities with regards to their obligations under CAO 48.1.
Staff in managerial roles and other non-operational staff, whose work may have an impact 6.2on the management of fatigue and fatigue-related processes, should be educated and aware of their contributions to fatigue management in operations. Management should be aware that their responses to fatigue occurrence reporting will, to a large extent, impact the motivation of FCMs to report fatigue and the subsequent effectiveness of the hazard identification processes.
Managers also need to be aware that their decisions can affect operational fatigue 6.3management and fatigue risk management. For example, decisions regarding:
roster design
hotel selection
crew contact protocols
quality of FCM training and key personnel appointment
Additionally, rostering personnel have a significant influence on the management of duty 6.4periods, FDPs and ODPs, and hence crew alertness.
7. Operator obligations – record keeping
In accordance with the Operator obligations in CAO 48.1, an Operator must maintain 7.1records in relation to FCM rosters, actual duty times and flight times (including reports of instances where an FDP is extended under an ‘extension’ provision).
These records and reports must be retained for ten years. Operators must maintain records 7.2of the duration of all duty periods performed by an FCM, such as any task that an FCM is required, by an Operator, to carry out associated with the business of the Operator (this includes desk duties).
Where an extension provision is used that exceeds a ‘hard’ limit contained in the 7.3Operator’s operations manual, a report must be completed by the Operator (refer to Appendix E to
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this CAAP for an example of a fatigue occurrence report). The purpose of these reports is to facilitate identification of fatigue hazards and the improvement in an Operator’s fatigue management policies (i.e. limitations). There must be sufficient detail in the report to enable it to be used effectively for this purpose.
Unless the operation is being conducted under Appendix 5, these reports must be provided 7.4to CASA. CASA inspectors will review these reports and may follow up on how these are being used to provide for continuous improvement of the Operator’s fatigue management policies.
Note: Extensions that occur in operations under Appendix 5 still require a report to be raised and used for hazard identification and fatigue management; however, there is no requirement to provide these reports to CASA.
Extensions due to unforeseen operational circumstances 7.5
For all operations (excluding Appendix 5), extensions to rostered duties may only be made 7.5.1in unforeseen operational circumstances, and should not be made on a regular basis. (Refer to definitions) The intention behind the use of the term ‘unforeseen circumstances’ is to prevent Operators continually rostering flight and duty times to their maximum limits and regularly relying on extensions to achieve their operational goals. As well as operational experience, hazard identification and risk assessments can be utilised to foreseen potential disruptions or delays, for example:
weather
air traffic control instructions
peak traffic during departure/landing times
sickness of crew members during a duty.
For circumstances to be statistically unlikely (exceptional), they should only occur in less 7.6than five percent in any sample of similar FDPs or similar operations.
Example:
If an airport turn-around time is programmed for 45 minutes, however, it takes 1 hour and 15 minutes in one third of cases, relying on a 45 minute turnaround when rostering an FCM for a FDP that is at or close to the maximum is not appropriate.
Where an Operator is encroaching on the five percent restriction, the Operator should 7.7consider revising its rostering practices by creating or amending documented rostering rules both for developing a roster and for day-of-operations management that provide greater assurance that the flight and duty time limits prescribed in the Operator’s operations manual will reliably not be exceeded.
For a Tier 2 Operator to meet their obligations, the reports on extensions should be fed into 7.7.1their hazard identification and continuous monitoring processes (refer to section 11 of this CAAP, for further guidance).
8. Operator obligations – determination of home base
An Operator engaged in public transport services is required to determine and notify each 8.1.1of its FCMs of their ‘home base’. (Refer to definitions)
Details of the process for making these home base determinations must be set out in the 8.1.2Operator’s operations manual. This allows FCMs to understand the procedures associated with these determinations (i.e. time available to move locations, if necessary).
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Operators must ensure that changes in home base will not adversely affect aviation safety. 8.1.3Careful consideration of what an FCM may need to do as a result of a change in home base and subsequent recovery is necessary.
Determinations of home base should be assigned with a degree of permanence so as to 8.1.4not disrupt an FCM’s fatigue recovery routines between duties.
9. Operator obligations – publishing of rosters
Publishing duty rosters allows FCMs to plan adequate rest before their next assigned duty. 9.1Operators should be aware that their FCMs will require some degree of certainty in organising their work/life balance and, more importantly from a fatigue management point-of-view, organising sleep.
It is important that AOC holders publish the roster sufficiently in advance of the flights 9.2covered by the roster to allow the FCMs to organise their work/life balance, adequate sleep, and other aspects of personal life. Rosters should also be published with a consistent lead time that is communicated to all FCMs.
Whilst late changes to rosters are understandable, it is important that these changes are 9.3kept to a minimum. It is necessary to have procedures in place so that any fatigue risk resulting from the effects of late roster changes is managed. This is particularly pertinent for augmented crew operations and the subsequent in-flight rest planning.
Delayed reporting time 9.4
There are various provisions in CAO 48.1 that provide for delaying an FCM’s reporting 9.4.1time. Delaying a reporting time can result in extended periods of wakefulness and, if not managed properly, has the potential to impact on fatigue risk. If the Operator becomes aware of circumstances that necessitate a delay to the FCM’s reporting time for a FDP in the time preceding the commencement of a rostered FDP, then it is reasonable that the FDP be delayed.
Depending on the length of the delay, there can be an increase in fatigue risk that may 9.4.2impact on the safety of a flight following that delay. Operators must have procedures that address this potential for increased fatigue risk and ensure safeguards are in place to mitigate any increased risk.
The delayed reporting time provisions divide the possible delays into three main brackets: 9.4.3
less than 4 hours
4 hours or more, but less than 10 hours
10 hours or more.
Specific guidance on application of the delayed reporting requirements can be found in
section C5 to Appendix C of this CAAP.
For delays less than 4 hours, the assumption is that the FCM may be able to rest; however, 9.4.4
it is unlikely they will be able to return to sleep. The maximum FDP limit that the FCM cannot exceed remains the one determined for the original reporting time, and it is not permitted for the maximum FDP limit to be increased as a result of the delay. The reasoning behind this is that the FCM did not have an opportunity to organise their awakening time to suit the later reporting time and they will likely remain awake during the period of the delay.
In contrast, if the delayed reporting time results in a lower maximum FDP limit, this 9.4.5becomes the limiting maximum FDP limit, as this means the delay has resulted in a start time for which the maximum FDP is beginning to encroach on the WOCL.
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For delays between 4 and 10 hours, there is an additional requirement that the maximum 9.4.6FDP determined for the 4 hour mark is then reduced by the amount of time that the resulting total delayed reporting time exceeds 4 hours. This linear reduction reflects the expectation that the FCM has already completed 8 hours of sleep and will not be able to return to sleep during the delay, and the FCM will therefore be awake for a significant period before they commence the delayed FDP.
For delays greater than 10 hours, it is considered that the FCM will have an opportunity to 9.4.7rest and sleep (where possible) throughout this period, and so adequately prepare for the resulting FDP commencing at the delayed reporting time. As it is possible that a delay of 10 hours or more may lead to significant circadian disruption for some FCMs, it is advised that operations manual procedures require both Operators and FCMs to carefully assess the fatigue risks associated with the new FDP.
For an Operator to implement delays of less than 10 hours, it is necessary for the 9.4.8operations manual procedures to address the requirements. These required procedures must be familiar to FCMs and be capable of providing a consistent application of delayed reporting procedures that meet the prescriptive limits. In developing operations manual procedures, an Operator should consider matters such as contact/delay notification protocols at home base and away from home base, and paying particular attention to protecting and not interrupting a FCMs’ sleep opportunity.
10. Operator obligations – additional obligations relating to
FCMs under Appendices 2 to 6 (Tier 2 Operators)
Operators who choose to operate under Tier 2 are subject to additional obligations. These 10.1include:
hazard identification procedures
procedures for the establishment of limitations (taking into account hazards)
procedures which provide for continuous monitoring and evaluation, with a view to
improving the Operator’s limitations, policies and practices (refer to Appendix F to this
CAAP for an example of how continuous monitoring procedures can be used in practice to
satisfy the obligations)
training for FCMs.
Operators with an effective Safety Management System (SMS) will be familiar with these 10.2processes, and an SMS will most likely enable compliance with the hazard identification and continuous monitoring obligations.
Hazard identification (including use of biomathematical models) 10.3
As with all risk management, hazards related to human fatigue and alertness need to be 10.3.1identified, safety risks need to be assessed and risks need to be managed (e.g. putting in place controls and mitigation strategies). This is consistent with International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 31000:2009 – Risk management – Principles and guidelines.
Hazard identification needs to be done with formalised processes, which may include: 10.3.2
hazard identification workshops (i.e. group brainstorming)
risk assessments (i.e. formal risk assessments can uncover new hazards)
hazard reporting
hazard logging in registers (e.g. through electronic systems).
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Hazards can combine in unforeseeable ways, so that even apparently trivial hazards can 10.3.3result in undesirable outcomes, which may combine with other hazards to result in a catastrophe.
The methods for hazard identification should be commensurate with the proposed extent of 10.3.4the limits in the applicable appendices. If the proposed limits in the operations manual are at or near the limits in the applicable appendices, CASA expects that the Operator would have reactive, proactive, and even predictive hazard identification processes in place to ensure fatigue risk is managed properly.
Hazards can be identified from a range of sources including, but not limited to: 10.3.5
brain-storming using experienced operational personnel
development of risk scenarios
trend analysis
fatigue reports
feedback from training
safety surveys and operational oversight safety audits
monitoring of normal operations
use of appropriately validated biomathematical models
State investigation of accidents and serious incidents
information exchange systems (similar Operators, regulators etc.).
Over time, the database of reported hazards enables the organisation to: 10.3.6
identify ‘hot spots’ of fatigue risk that need particular attention
conduct trend analysis that can provide the basis for improvement of hazard identification.
FCMs have an obligation to disclose, to their Operator(s), anything affecting the FCM or 10.3.7
connected with the FDP, which they have reason to believe, may affect their ability to meet the AOC holder’s fatigue risk management policies or limitations. Examples of such factors include:
their living arrangements
external employment
private flying any other factor which may compromise their alertness during duty.
These factors should be considered in the same light as general operational-specific 10.3.8
hazards. For example, where certain FCMs disclose that they live a long distance away from their home base, the additional time spent commuting to work is a hazard that could adversely affect their alertness towards the end of their duty, due to their increased hours of sustained wakefulness.
Hazards like this need to be dealt with in two main ways: 10.3.9
when determining flight and duty time limitations
provide for continuous improvement of policies and practices.
Biomathematical models of fatigue can assist Operators in providing predictions of human 10.3.10
fatigue and/or sleep opportunity factors that can be utilised as one, non-essential component of a fatigue management regime. A primary role of many models is to provide a strategic rostering support tool aimed at providing an initial validation for newly developed or modified rosters.
While not a necessary component, biomathematical models of fatigue can incorporate 10.3.11aspects of fatigue science into rostering practices through providing predictions of fatigue risk levels, performance levels, and/or optimum sleep times/opportunities. Biomathematical fatigue models have limitations that must be considered. Some limitations include:
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predicting risk probabilities for a population average rather than fatigue levels of a specific
individual
not taking into account the impact of workload or personal and work-related stressors that
may affect fatigue levels
incomplete description of all fatigue physiology factors
limited testing (validation) against aviation specific data.
Because each model has different strengths and limitations, CASA’s recommended 10.3.12
approach is to consider a range of predictive processes (including biomathematical models) to identify fatigue hazards. When using a biomathematical model, CASA suggests the Operator take a cautionary approach, which takes into account the model’s limitations and validity in that particular operational context (i.e. whether it has been validated against fatigue data from operations similar to those the Operator is interested in). When making decisions about roster design, model predictions should not be used without reference to operational experience.
For further details about comparing the properties, strengths and limitations of various 10.3.13fatigue models, refer to the Biomathematical Fatigue Models Guidance Document available on the CASA website. It is important to be cognisant that a fatigue management regime should be designed as a comprehensive, multi-layered system, in which biomathematical models provide an optional supportive role.
Setting limitations taking into account hazards 10.4
When determining flight and duty time limits, Operators need to consider the unique needs 10.4.1of their operational environment and tailor the regulatory promulgated limitations accordingly. It is also important for Operators to consider that their environment is likely to change over time. Consequently, any changes need to be appropriately risk assessed. The Operator also needs to continually revisit, update and modify flight time and duty limits to ensure the relevancy to operations at the current time.
Operators should consider the consequences of organisational or operational changes on 10.4.2fatigue and crew performance. Where fatigue-related issues arise associated with changing operations (e.g. different routes); or introducing new operations, Operators should consider further mitigations to manage fatigue and crew performance. To assess the risk of any change, a persuasive risk assessment should be conducted, which includes looking at the likelihood and consequences of fatigue risks associated with that change.
Documented risk assessments will be required by CASA during surveillance activities, to 10.4.3demonstrate that changes have been properly considered.
The limits which are determined under this obligation become new ‘hard’ limits for the 10.4.4Operator. This means that any exceedance of these limits must be in accordance with the extension provisions and only in unforeseen operational circumstances.2 Reports of these extensions must be made and provided to CASA.
Operators should take into account the impact on fatigue levels of training and checking 10.4.5requirements when designing and setting limits. Participating in a training exercise or training other individuals can contribute to a person’s fatigue levels over and above what might otherwise be expected for other duties. This needs to be taken into account.
2 Operations and extensions under Appendix 5 to CAO 48.1 exempt from this requirement.
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Training might be: 10.4.6
classroom-based
on-line
during flight operations (line training)
at a training facility
or
in a flight simulator.
All types of training could potentially affect the alertness of FCMs and their subsequent 10.4.7
operational performance. From a workload perspective, it is also possible that monitoring or training another FCM could be more fatiguing than regular operations. It is highly recommended that Operators make an appropriate reduction to maximum FDP limits when the FDP includes a period of training.
Training flights in a simulator are considered duty, and must be included in an FDP if they 10.4.8are conducted prior to a flight and are not separated from that flight by a prior sleep opportunity. If the simulator training is conducted after the last flight in a duty period, it does not need to be included in the FDP. When planning any FCM training, the impact of the level of FCM fatigue on the quality of training should be considered and managed accordingly.
Continuous improvement of policies and practices 10.5
Operators need to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of their fatigue management 10.5.1controls (such as policies and practices). Where controls are found to be inadequate or ineffective, the Operator must address this as part of their continuous improvement requirements.
Policies and practices to consider include: 10.5.2
scheduling and rostering practices
layover accommodation conditions
augmented crew procedures
training syllabi
use of alertness and vigilance tools (i.e. a psychomotor vigilance test [PVT] prior to
commencing duty).
Smaller Operator example – an Operator, operating mostly during the very early morning, 10.5.3
should consider their operational needs when considering policies, potentially including a means for systematically shifting subsequent start times an hour later each day in order to ensure FCMs whose awakening time infringes on their morning WOCL period can recover from the lower quality of sleep as the week progresses.
Larger Operator example – a larger Operator running long-haul routes across time zones 10.5.4internationally should have established policies for taking into account their operational needs when selecting and booking accommodation for FCMs. These accommodation venues should be able to meet policies addressing:
noise management
temperature control
light-blocking facilities.
Where available, an Operator should make use of their SMS for this process. For 10.5.5
Operators without an SMS, Appendix C to this CAAP provides further examples of the types of hazards that may need to be addressed.
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An Operator’s policies and practices should be reassessed for adequacy when there are 10.5.6adjustments of flight and duty time limitations.
Transition between appendices 10.6
Depending on the operational characteristics, Operators may need to operate to multiple 10.6.1CAO 48.1 appendices and need to transition their FCMs between these appendices. Transitioning FCMs between different appendices may produce inconsistencies in duty/flight/standby/off-duty requirements. Procedures are required to ensure the FCM is always in compliance when making these transitions. There must also be an assessment of the fatigue risks resulting from transitioning between appendices in the Operator’s particular operating context and environment. The Operator must address any risks identified with procedures and/or adjustment of their limits.
To ensure compliance, particular consideration must be given by Operators transitioning 10.6.2from Appendix 5 to CAO 48.1 (aerial work operations, other than flying training) to the other appendices. This is because concepts, such as standby, are dealt with differently in Appendix 5 (to provide more flexible standby arrangements) and, therefore, may conflict with the requirements and limits in other appendices. Further guidance about operating under multiple appendices is contained in Appendix B to this CAAP.
Fatigue Training 10.7
Operators need to conduct fatigue training and assessment. To meet their obligations, 10.7.1Operators should:
allocate adequate resources for fatigue training (including trainers, materials and time)
accept that the benefits of fatigue training will not be realised without ongoing investment
and effort.
There are three main subject areas which form the substance of a typical fatigue training 10.7.2
program (fatigue, sleep and countermeasures). The following is a list of topics that could be included in these subject areas:
Fatigue:
types of fatigue
contributors to fatigue
consequences of fatigue on safety
fatigue in accidents
high risk situations.
Sleep:
sleep physiology
circadian body clock
the sleep process
amount of sleep required
sleep debt and recovery
quality of sleep
sleep disorders and individual differences
shift work
jet lag.
Countermeasures:
managing sleep habits
tailoring the sleep environment
napping
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exercise
nutrition and hydration
caffeine
avoidance of alcohol before bed
use of sleep aids
avoidance of nicotine
keeping a sleep log.
In addition to these generic fatigue management topics, Operators should tailor their 10.7.3
training programs to include relevant topics for their own operation. For example, during training, FCMs should be made aware of the Operator’s operations manual procedures, limits and Operator and individual obligations.
Training must be conducted on an initial and recurrent basis. The interval between training 10.7.4should be determined by the Operator, given their operational characteristics and training needs analysis. A training interval of not more than three years is recommended; however, where an Operator identifies a need for training at closer intervals, this should be acted on.
The training required by CAO 48.1 may be integrated with other training conducted by an 10.7.5Operator (i.e. human factors/non-technical skills training).
Fatigue training must be assessed with the level of training determining the level of 10.7.6assessment required.
A primary goal of assessment is to determine to what extent those participating in the 10.7.7training program are learning. Different phases of training (awareness, knowledge and skills) will entail different forms of assessment. Assessment techniques for awareness and knowledge phases of training programs are well founded.
Another goal of assessment is to act as a feedback mechanism to permit adaptive changes 10.7.8to training content and methods of instruction. The diagnostic use of assessment to provide feedback to instructors and students during a program of instruction is known as formative assessment.
The other main form of assessment (referred to as summative assessment) traditionally 10.7.9uses a behavioural test or written paper after a specified period of training to enable judgements about what level of learning has occurred.
Both formative and summative assessment can be used to make adjustments to the 10.7.10practise and design of training (i.e. reteaching, implementing alternative instructional approaches, and adding extra opportunities for practice).
Assessment criteria should be drawn from the initial training needs analysis. Training 10.7.11personnel are encouraged to use their experience to develop assessment criteria tailored to their particular operation. CASA has published a Fatigue Management Toolkit on its website that includes material that may be useful in developing and facilitating a fatigue management training course. (Refer to section 1 – The relevant regulations and other references – for CAAPs)
Aerial work operations under Appendix 5 10.8
The nature of Australian aerial work operations creates a unique set of circumstances for 10.8.1fatigue management. The types of activities vary widely within and between Operators, across seasons and different regions, and are affected by short notice operational requests. Operations that are ad hoc on a daily basis include:
emergency medical services (EMS)
fire-fighting
flood relief.
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Additionally, Operators may also need to change planned operations suddenly due to 10.9environmental changes (e.g. planned aerial application operations need adjustment when weather conditions do not suit).
Compounding this level of complexity is that some aerial work operators require: 10.9.1
maximum availability through flexible standby arrangements
the capacity to cope with high-tempo, short-term operations involving isolated long days or
sustained, lengthy FDPs over successive days
high yearly cumulative flight time totals.
To risk manage these complexities and variable conditions, the Tier 2 provisions of 10.9.2
CAO 48.1 have a foundation of risk management responsibilities within prescriptive limits. These prescriptive limits are not considered to be excessive under ideal circumstances. They need to be further moderated by Operators and FCMs according to their unique circumstances.
To accommodate requirements unique to aerial work, CASA has made certain provisions 10.9.3unique to aerial work operations. These are considered appropriately flexible, whilst maintaining a satisfactory level of safety if appropriate hazard identification and risk management processes are followed. While these provisions were necessary to accommodate the nature of operations under Appendix 5, they are likely to introduce some complexity when Operators and FCMs transition between Appendix 5 and other appendices. Operators are required to detail appropriate procedures to manage this transition safely and remain compliant at all times.
11. Individual obligations – fitness for duty – individual
cognitive and physical fitness
Individual alertness measurement 11.1
Determining fitness for duty has always been a complex and challenging task, both for 11.1.1Operators who should provide training to employees in understanding how to meet their responsibilities, and for the employees themselves.
A multi-method approach proves particularly useful, given that substantial fatigue research 11.1.2has demonstrated that humans are quite poor at determining how fatigued they actually are. The most ideal approach to measure an individual’s true alertness level is to combine information from a range of sources. While no one tool or method may be free of limitations in measurement, obtaining information from a variety of sources is more likely to provide the individual with more accurate picture upon which to make their decisions regarding alertness. For example, instead of relying only on their subjective assessment of how fatigued they feel, they could support this assessment by using a scale, such as the Samn-Perelli scale, and additionally, improve the accuracy of this assessment of their alertness by considering one or more of the following potential sources of information:
their sleep history, particularly if they have kept a personal sleep diary
monitoring behavioural/cognitive/emotional indicators (e.g. drooping eyelids, slower
information processing time, negative mood)
considering their responses to important factors relevant to fatigue (e.g. sleep length, sleep
quality, sleep environment, time zones crossed)
completing a short handheld psychomotor vigilance test (PVT)
examining scores from sleep monitoring tools
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Using a range of measures of varying types (i.e. both objective and subjective data) to 11.2determine an overall alertness ‘picture’ will assist the FCM in making informed and accurate decisions about managing their fatigue and whether they are operationally fit for work.
It is also important to recognise that FCMs who are fatigued will have impaired decision-11.2.1making (e.g. about their alertness scores) and they will have poorer judgment in terms of how fatigued they are and whether they are actually fit for duty. This is because problem-solving and decision-making capability is reduced when suffering from fatigue. Operationally, this may mean that fatigued FCMs making an assessment about their fitness for duty may misread test scores or administer measurement tools incorrectly.
Communication about the extent of their fatigue impairment may also not be effective when 11.2.2trying to manage the situation. As creativity (along with problem-solving) is also reduced when suffering from fatigue, an FCM will also be less likely to:
determine effective ways of managing their fatigue
address alertness issues in general
be able to identify potential risks and hazards.
To manage poorer judgment and decision-making, CASA recommends involving a non-11.2.3
fatigued individual along with multiple methods of measuring alertness to assist the FCM in assessing fitness for flight.
Important factors that provide information when determining fitness for duty are the 11.2.4measurement of:
sleep history
changes to circadian rhythms
operational risk
the time of proposed operation.
Appendix G to this CAAP provides an example of a useful method to tool for an individual 11.2.5
to consider factors affecting their fitness for duty. The intention of this particular example tool is that it is used in a proactive manner to assist an FCM who thinks they present a fatigue risk, but are unsure if they should start duty, or are unsure for how long a period of reasonable alertness will likely continue for them. The tool in Appendix G has been developed to support them when making decisions of fitness for flight.
It is important for Operators and employees to understand that the tool in Appendix G is not 11.2.6meant to provide a ‘go or no-go’ outcome. There will also be situations when FCMs need to commence operations and manage their fatigue risk through the use of other countermeasures (i.e. task rotation or napping).
It is important to understand that this tool is only one example of a decision-making aid 11.2.7when determining fitness for duty. Operators or FCMs themselves may utilise other methods/tools for determining fitness for duty; however, the most optimal methods will have established validity and be usable in operations. Managing fatigue needs to be specific to the operational risk context.
Fatigue occurrence reporting 11.3
Operators’ hazard identification obligations are reliant on FCMs reporting when they 11.3.1believe fatigue led to a reduction in safety margins, or would have led to a reduction in safety margins had some mitigating action not been taken. It should be stressed that Operators must make every effort through fatigue training to highlight the importance of accurate voluntary reporting. Broadly speaking, there are four instances when fatigue reporting is essential for effective hazard identification (refer to Appendix E to this CAAP for an example of a fatigue occurrence report):
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Through the Operator’s fatigue reporting system, when an FDP has not commenced or is
not completed due to fatigue (entirely or in part). This includes when the FDP is completed,
but only after some mitigating action, for example:
adding an extra crew member
reducing the workload of the duty
delaying the reporting time
creating the opportunity for a nap
increasing supervision/monitoring.
Through the Operator’s fatigue reporting system, following an FDP if the FCM believes, on
reflection, that the level of fatigue they or other crew members were suffering meant
sufficient safety margins had not been maintained throughout the flight(s).
Through the Operator’s fatigue reporting system, when the FCM notices something in their
operating environment that is likely to impact on their, or other crew members’, alertness to
such an extent that safety margins could be reduced to unsatisfactory levels.
Through the Operator’s occurrence reporting system (if they have an SMS), when an
incident or event has occurred where fatigue may, or may not, have been a contributing
safety factor. To enable this, it is preferable for there to be a fatigue reporting facility or
prompt on the Operator’s occurrence reporting mechanism. In these instances it is
advisable to provide a 72 hour sleep history.
Health and well-being 11.4
The FCM should monitor and seek appropriate treatment for their health and general well-11.4.1being, as physical health can impact on fatigue. Health and well-being includes:
short-term (acute) and chronic health conditions
genetic predispositions
nutrition
hydration
sleep difficulties (a wide range of sleep difficulties can affect fatigue, circadian functions,
sleep quantity and sleep quality).3
Sleep disorders range in severity from occasional and inconvenient (e.g. jet lag when on 11.4.2
holiday) to chronic and potentially life-threatening (e.g. obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome). When managing fatigue, employees have a duty of care to monitor and manage any health concerns that may impact on their fitness for duty, which may include contacting a medical specialist. FCMs should be cognisant that sleep difficulties may exist or may develop in the future and that these should be treated accordingly, so they do not impact upon the safety of aviation operations.
Workload 11.5
One of the major topics when considering human factors and human performance in 11.5.1aviation systems is workload management. While various conceptualisations of workload exist, mental workload can be defined as a function of the environmental demands placed on the FCM and the capabilities of the FCM to meet those demands.
3 There are a diversity of sleep disorders from a psychological perspective, which are listed in the current
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th edition). In addition to this, there is the International Classification of Sleep Disorders diagnostic and coding manual where new categories are continually being added.
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Workload management for the FCM requires consideration of: 11.5.2
demands on attention
processing capacity
dual-tasks (multitasking)
how mental resources are being allocated.
While workload management itself is important when minimising the risk of human error, it 11.6is also likely that workload and the nature of the tasks performed affect how fatigued the FCM will become. To date, few studies have considered how workload influences alertness (or vice versa); however, their interaction is likely to require consideration and management.
Typical techniques for managing workload while on duty include: 11.6.1
task shedding
prioritisation of tasks
task delegation
task rotation
personnel rotation.
It is also important to be cognisant of a person’s optimal level of stress or arousal 11.7necessary for optimal performance to:
acknowledge the advantages of stress and engagement in a task
have realistic attitudes towards stress – understanding that different people react differently
to stressful situations (e.g. emergencies)
use effective communication with colleagues
monitor and observe any behaviours that may indicate a change to a person’s workload
level (e.g. gripping the controls tightly, fixation on the artificial horizon, tunnel focusing on a
display screen).
Workload is also an increasingly important factor for biomathematical models of 11.7.1
performance prediction. Although determining the degree to which this factor (the variance) might impact on alertness (in addition to factors such as shift length, timing or pattern) requires further research. Several fatigue biomathematical models on the market are currently investigating and incorporating the effects of workload on alertness in their suite of predictive variables.
Overall, existing data suggests that the relationships between workload, performance and 11.7.2subjective fatigue are likely to be complex and that further research is desirable. For aviation personnel, it is important to consider and manage the effects of workload and fatigue individually when managing risk, as well as the interacting relationship that may be present between them.
Fatigue mitigating strategies 11.8
An FCM can manage fatigue before, during and after work shifts by employing a range of 11.8.1fatigue mitigation strategies that work for their personal sleep needs. It is helpful to establish effective sleep habits, such as:
scheduling sleep
trying a quiet activity before bed
establishing a bedtime routine
not eating or drinking too much
getting out of bed if they cannot sleep
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using relaxation techniques
having a comfortable bed
it is also important that the sleep environment is conducive to rest, specifically that it has a
cool temperature, is dark and quiet.
One of the most effective fatigue countermeasures is napping; however, it is important to 11.8.2
remember that napping should not be considered as an alternative to a regular night’s sleep. Napping can be useful when supplementing too little or poor quality sleep and just 15-20 minutes can increase performance and alertness temporarily. Care should be taken when planning napping, as napping for greater than periods of approximately 45 minutes can result in greater sleep inertia.
Exercise is also a beneficial fatigue mitigator, as it improves energy and stamina, improves 11.8.3mood, relieves stress and results in longer and more restful sleep.
Adequate nutrition and hydration is also important for managing and preventing fatigue. 11.8.4Ideally, the FCM should:
have a balanced diet
eat regularly
have healthy snacks
eat breakfast
plan meals
drink water regularly
avoid late night meals (which result in slower digestion).
Another popular fatigue countermeasure is the use of caffeine as a stimulant. Caffeine can 11.9improve alertness temporarily, takes 15-30 minutes to take effect and can last for 5 hours; however, it is important to consider that there are individual differences in terms of the effects of caffeine, that tolerance and withdrawal can develop, and that use should be avoided before bedtime. Caffeine should be used when its affect will have the most impact (i.e. prior to flying the descent and landing).
In order to increase sleep quality, alcohol should be avoided before bedtime. Sleep aids 11.10and medications should be treated with caution and used in consultation with a physician, as they can lead to drowsiness, confusion and forgetfulness. Nicotine should also be avoided, as it is a stimulant that can interfere with getting to (and remaining) asleep.
An ideal way for FCMs to keep track of their sleep quality or the effectiveness of used 11.10.1fatigue countermeasures, is to keep a sleep log or sleep diary. Research suggests that people (including pilots) tend to overestimate the amount of sleep they are getting, so a daily log can assist with accurate recall. An example log/sleep diary could incorporate:
time in bed
time getting to sleep
time of awakening
mood upon awakening
nutrition/alcohol consumption from the previous day
sleep quality (e.g. number of awakenings during the night)
the sleep environment (e.g. a comfortable bed, ventilation, lighting).
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Sleep 11.11
An FCM should utilise ODPs to ensure fitness for their next rostered duty period or standby 11.11.1time. This is both for recovery from time awake/fatigue and to ensure they are sufficiently rested for any future duty periods. If adequate sleep cannot be obtained, the FCM would need to report this to the Operator before any duty periods commence.
It is likely that to meet their obligations, an FCM would be required to have suitable 11.11.2sleeping accommodation/conditions at home and also have access to suitable sleeping accommodation/conditions when they are away from home, due to duty requirements. CAO 48.1 also recommends sleep opportunity and the availability of suitable sleeping accommodation, at these times.
The sleep environment should allow for an adequate sleep period with defined blocks of 11.11.3time during which FCMs are not interrupted. The ergonomics of rest areas should be considered, as they can have a large influence on fatigue while working, and the quality and quantity of restorative rest. This includes an environment that is cool, dark and quiet and provides relief from postural constraints of the work (e.g. prolonged periods strapped to a flight seat), noise and other environmental factors.
Appropriate accommodation should consider the following factors: 11.11.4
noise
physical configurations
locations
privacy needs
lighting
vibration
micro-climate (air flow, ventilation, temperature, temperature gradient, humidity)
hygiene.
It is also suggested that FCMs consider their personal ergonomic and environmental 11.11.5
needs/requirements when determining suitable sleeping accommodation/conditions at home.
Time zones and acclimatisation 11.12
The responsibility for managing the effects of time zone changes and acclimatisation is 11.12.1shared between the Operator and the FCM. The Operator should provide adequate fatigue training, as well as tools for staff to use when assessing their own alertness.
The FCM has an obligation to then apply this to their situation when deciding their fitness 11.12.2for duty. FCMs should be cognisant of their personal time zone adaptation requirements. These may differ from what CAO 48.1 specifies. Where an FCM feels that they are not fit for duty following an off-duty period after crossing time zones, this should be reported to the Operator so that the Operator can determine whether their limitations and fatigue policies are adequate.
Augmented crew 11.13
With appropriate in-flight resting facilities, crew can rotate rest times and share facilities to 11.13.1manage their fatigue. It is important that crews consider that with an augmented crew, there will be variability in terms of alertness and circadian (i.e. time zone/body clock) adjustment among FCMs. Additionally, they will all have different sleep needs and different performance effects from countermeasures (e.g. caffeine). When utilising in-flight rest facilities, an FCM should do so intelligently, rather than doing something potentially stressful (e.g. a university assignment), the FCM should make use of the time to relax and attempt to sleep.
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There are various studies which look at the effects of sleep inertia on performance, 11.13.2particularly when awakening from deep sleep. Operators and FCMs should be aware of and manage the effect of sleep inertia in flight operations.
12. Individual obligations – disclosure to an Operator
Living arrangements – distance from base 12.1
FCMs should consider how their living arrangements and travel time to work may affect 12.1.1their fatigue levels. Any potentially problematic conditions need to be disclosed to the Operator if it is having, or is likely to have, an impact on operational performance.
As an FCM’s living arrangements change throughout their lifespan, these changes should 12.1.2also be considered in the context of whether it may have an impact on fatigue levels and subsequent operational performance. For example, living situations that may have a resulting impact on a person’s fatigue levels include:
having shared or alternating living locations
long and variable commute times (e.g. due to distance and traffic congestion)
personal and work-related relocation decisions
noisy living environments/disruptions to home resting areas (e.g. council/road works,
neighbourhood construction/renovations, care requirements for babies/children, traffic
noise, non-soundproof walls)
overly well-lit living environments/resting areas (e.g. bright city lighting, inadequate light
coverings during allocated daytime rest periods).
FCMs may find that certain unique living situations can improve alertness and minimise the 12.1.3
risk of fatigue. In some instances, it may be beneficial to live further away from a departure base, rather than closer. An example is where the departure base is continually noisy or overly lit during sleep/rest periods or night time. FCMs should give sufficient contextual consideration to their living arrangements and changes to their living arrangements in relation to any impact it may have on fatigue. If potentially problematic situations arise, this needs to be disclosed to the Operator.
External employment and other tasks 12.2
FCMs have an obligation to manage any external employment activities to ensure that they 12.2.1do not impact on their fatigue levels during operations. External activities such as:
home duties
leisure duties
family duties
volunteering work conducted outside of work hours.
With external employment and other tasks, the employee should consider any potentially 12.2.2
adverse effects on operational safety from a fatigue perspective and disclose any potentially problematic situations to the Operator. Examples of external tasks which may affect fatigue levels include:
night flying work
shift work
running a business
child minding responsibilities
physically labouring tasks
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study/education
driving.
Private flying 12.3
An FCM, who undertakes private flying and acts as an FCM for an Operator, may have an 12.3.1obligation to declare private flights. Private flying operations cover a wide range of activities. For the purposes of fatigue management these activities can be divided into two broad areas:
recreational private operations
non-recreational private operations.
A recreational private operation can be conducted by an FCM and there are no current 12.3.2
limits (beyond personal limits) that may apply. In the normal course of events where an FCM does some recreational private flying on a day off, there may be no need for the FCM to disclose this; however, the FCM must be mindful of Operators’ policies to fatigue and recreational flying.
There are individuals who undertake private flying that is not considered recreational (i.e. 12.3.3paid work, ferry flights, flight testing and conversion training).
These operations are seen as more difficult to cancel or reschedule and generally involve 12.3.4more planning and operational complexity than traditional recreational flight. They may have an effect on a subsequent FDP for the pilot who is also employed by an Operator. There are no limits, except personal ones that apply; however, once the FCM is rostered by an Operator, these activities should be declared, as they will form part of cumulative flight time limits.
Open and fair reporting culture 12.4
In accordance with maintaining an open and fair reporting culture, FCMs need to disclose 12.4.1any situations, which are affecting, or may in the future affect, their alertness and compliance with CAO 48.1. Disclosure is also consistent with upholding best practice safety and risk management principles. FCMs have an obligation to contribute to this healthy safety culture and to maintain a strong reporting culture, which in turn enables the Operator to manage risk predictively and proactively. Employees need to be able to disclose information and discuss factors with the Operator that may affect fatigue and alertness in an open, communicative and confidential environment, without experiencing fear of penalty.
Executive Manager Standards Division February 15
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APPENDIX A Development of operations manual limits and procedures
Development sequence
The following development sequence is just one approach of many that an Operator could take to develop limits and procedures for their operations manual. The major development tasks, in the suggested order, are:
a. Determine allowable appendices – confirm what operations are authorised to be conducted
and therefore the applicable appendices.
b. Determine limits (see APPENDIX C Appendices limits and requirements) –
determine limits that must not exceed the limits in the allowable appendix or appendices.
The chosen limits cannot be more than any maximum stipulated in an applicable appendix
and cannot be less than any minimum stipulated in an applicable appendix.
c. Develop procedures to meet requirements contained in appendices (see APPENDIX C
Appendices limits and requirements) – these procedures must provide for compliance and
fulfilment of requirements as set out in the applicable appendix or appendices (i.e. sleep
opportunity provisions and delayed reporting time procedures).
d. Develop procedures to meet requirements for operations under multiple appendices (see
APPENDIX B Operations under multiple appendices) – If operations under more than
one appendix are to be undertaken, these procedures must manage FCM transitions
between appendices. The procedures must meet the requirements of subsection 13 and
subparagraph 15.2 (d) of CAO 48.1.
e. Develop procedures to meet requirements for fatigue risk management (see CAAP Section
11) – If operations under one or more of Appendices 2-6 are to be undertaken, these
fatigue risk management procedures must meet the matters required by paragraph 15.2 of
CAO 48.1.
f. Develop fatigue training (see CAAP Section 11.7) – If operations under one or more of
Appendices 2-6 are to be undertaken, as required by paragraph 15.3 of CAO 48.1. Develop
an appropriate initial and recurrent fatigue training and assessment program, taking into
account the nature of the operations undertaken, the operational context and environment,
and the limits that have been chosen to apply. A description of the training resources must
be documented in the operations manual.
g. Develop other procedures (see CAAP Sections 5-10) – The various procedures required by
subsection 14 of CAO 48.1(i.e. rostering systems, provision for meals, etc.).
Note: All procedures and limits must be documented in the Operator’s operations manual. CASA must be satisfied that the limits and procedures in the operations manual are sufficient to reasonably ensure that FCMs will not exceed safe levels of fatigue while operating an aircraft.
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APPENDIX B Operations under multiple appendices Operating under multiple appendices means either, or both, of:
combining multiple appendices within a single FDP
switching from one appendix to another on consecutive FDPs.
Operating under multiple appendices requires a two-step process. The first step is to ensure the FCM is within the limits of the new appendix prior to transitioning. Then, if the FCM will be operating to more than one appendix in an FDP, the second step is to determine the limits that will apply to the proposed FDP. Within CAO 48.1 the following sections need to be considered when developing procedures for operating under multiple appendices; and in particular, managing fatigue risk through transitions from one appendix to another:
subsection 13
subparagraph 15.2 (d) (ii)
subsection 10 (for public transport), subsection 11 (for aerial work), subsection 11A (for
flying training) and subsection 11B (for Part 142 of CASR 1998 activity).
Subsection 10 (for public transport) and subsection 11 (for aerial work) requires that:
each Operator comply with limits and requirements mentioned in the applicable appendices
each FCM, employed by the Operator, must comply with the limits in the appendices the
Operator has chosen to comply with.
In some circumstances, meeting all the requirements of an appendix prior to operating under that appendix could potentially be more restrictive than is necessary to manage potential fatigue risk associated with transitioning. The requirements for combining multiple appendices within a single FDP have specific requirements that are addressed within subsection 13 and Operators must have procedures that comply with these requirements.
What to do before changing from one appendix to another
An Operator must identify the hazards associated with their FCMs transitioning between appendices, and manage the risks through the application of limits and transition procedures, in accordance with subparagraph 15.2 (d). This is to ensure that transitions do not result in an increase in risk to aviation safety. Transitions from Appendix 5 (aerial work other than flying training) to other appendices are likely to present the greatest challenge in terms of meeting the requirements of both appendices. Appendix 5 assumes that no fee-paying passengers are present, and that all on-board the aircraft are essential to the operation being conducted. Some appendices limits (i.e. the requirement for an FCM to have a minimum of 24 off-duty days in any consecutive 84 day period) assume the FCM is engaged in ongoing operations under that appendix and act alongside the requirement for seven off-duty days in every 28 consecutive days, to require an evenly distributed allocation of off-duty days across each 84 day period.
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In contrast, Appendix 5 allows for operations such as extended periods of 24 hour standby, and has no requirement for a specific number of off-duty days to be completed across an 84 day period. This may result in an FCM having considerably less off-duty days than the minimum required to commence an FDP under Appendix 4 or 6. Requiring an extended number of consecutive days off duty (i.e. greater than seven), prior to operating under a public transport appendix was not the specific intent of this requirement. Rather than require the FCMs to complete an extended number of consecutive days off-duty before they can transition from Appendix 5 to another appendix, in accordance with subparagraph 15.2 (d) (ii), the Operator can provide a risk management based procedure to manage the transition. In developing this risk management procedure, the Operator must take into account that a sustained period of sleep restriction can result in the FCM stabilising their alertness level at a lower than normal level. Research has shown that returning to normal levels of alertness can take as many as seven consecutive nights where the FCM achieves their normal sleep requirement. Therefore, if an Operator wanted to transition an FCM from Appendix 5 operations to flying training under Appendix 6, or charter work under Appendix 4, an acceptable procedure might be for the FCM to first meet all the requirements of the new appendix other than the requirement for 24 off-duty days in 84 consecutive days. This requirement is then met by means of a documented transition procedure that meets the requirements of subparagraph 15.2 (d) (ii), and is assessed as not impacting aviation safety. The, following procedures is an example of how this requirement might be met without impacting safety. If these procedures were implemented by the operator, they would need to be documented in their operations manual: Before transferring from ‘aerial work operations – other than flying training’ to any other appendix, the following requirements apply:
a. The FCM must have had at least 7 days off-duty in the 28 consecutive days before
commencing the FDP or standby; and
b. either:
i. The FCM must either have had at least 24 days off-duty in the 84 consecutive days
before commencing the FDP or standby; or
ii. The FCM must have completed a minimum number of consecutive off-duty days. The
minimum number of consecutive off-duty days for any FCM being equal to half as
many days as would otherwise be required for that FCM to meet the requirement for
24 off-duty days in the preceding 84 days (rounded up to the nearest whole number).
If the FCM commences operating in the new appendix with less than 24 off-duty days within 84 days, they have 28 days from the commencement of operating under the new appendix in which to meet this requirement. However, at all times they must meet the requirement for 7 off-duty days in 28 days. If the FCM subsequently transitions back to ‘aerial work operations – other than flying training’, then the whole procedure may be reset and commence again when they again transition out of ‘aerial work operations – other than flying training’ to another appendix.
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Example 1: If the FCM had 5 off-duty days in the preceding 28 days and 16 off-duty days in the preceding 84 days then they would need to complete a period of consecutive 4 off-duty days (i.e. 24-16 = 8; half of 8 equals 4 off-duty days). In this case, completing the 4 days off-duty means that the FCM then also meets the requirement for 7 off-duty days in a 28 day period and is clear to transition.
Days
Requirement period 28 84
Required off-duty days 7 24
Actual off-duty days 5 16
Deficit (days) 2 8
Half 84 day requirement (rounded up)
4
Off-duty days required to transition
4
Example 2: If the FCM had 2 off-duty days in the preceding 28 days and 16 off-duty days in the preceding 84 days then they would need to complete a period of consecutive 4 off-duty days (i.e. 24-16 = 8; half of 8 equals 4 off-duty days). In this case, completing the 4 days off-duty means that the FCM then still requires an additional day to meet the requirement for 7 off-duty days in a 28 day period and is clear to transition once all 5 days off-duty are completed.
Days
Requirement period 28 84
Required off-duty days 7 24
Actual off-duty days 2 17
Deficit (days) 5 7
Half 84 day requirement (rounded up)
4
Off-duty days required to transition
5
If there is any question regarding the suitability of this minimum period when employed in the Operator’s context, the Operator should monitor the fatigue levels of FCMs and increase this minimum period if required. An example of a way an Operator could monitor this is via surveys or
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regular meetings to discuss fatigue with the FCMs involved (the effectiveness of this approach would depend on the safety culture evident in the organisation at the time).
Operating under two or more appendices in a single FDP
If the Operator intends to undertake operations where two or more appendices apply to a single FDP, the operations manual must contain procedures that ensure that:
the maximum FDP is the FDP limit worked out for the appendix under which the operation
is being conducted, at that particular time. This must be calculated based on the
assumption that the entire FDP was conducted under that appendix. The FDP must be
based on the time the entire FDP started, and not on the start time of operations under
each appendix. This means that if the Operator rosters the FCM for an aerial work activity
prior to a charter flight, then before the FCM transitions to the charter flight, the FCM must
be able to conduct the charter flight within the maximum FDP limit worked out by checking
the maximum FDP for the start time of the aerial work activity and assuming the whole FDP
from that time was conducted under the charter limit (refer to Figure 1below).
the maximum flight time that an Operator and an FCM must comply with is the flight time
limit contained in the appendix under which the operation is being conducted at that
particular time (based on the assumption that the entire FDP was conducted under that
appendix). It must be based on the original start time of the FDP, and not on the start time
of operations under each appendix.
the ODP that must be applied following the FDP is the greater of the minimum ODPs (refer
to Figure 2). This is calculated by assuming the entire FDP was conducted under each
appendix. For example, the procedure should require that:
the Operator works out the minimum ODPs required (if the entire FDP was conducted
under each appendix)
the longest minimum ODP that was calculated is then the minimum ODP, which must
be completed before the FCM can commence another FDP under any appendix.
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Figure 1: Operating under two or more appendices in a single FDP - Maximum FDP limit
Figure 2: Operating under two or more appendices in a single FDP - Minimum ODP limit
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APPENDIX C Appendices limits and requirements The guidance material in this Appendix can be used to develop content for an operations manual to ensure it has satisfactory procedures and limits for the clauses in each appendix that an Operator wishes to adopt and comply with (i.e. split duty, augmented crew operations, standby, positioning etc.). Each section of this Appendix has been divided up according to the clauses in each of the appendices of CAO 48.1. For each clause there are general ‘Points to note’ and then, when required, there are specific ‘Points to note’ listed for each appendix of CAO 48.1. The format is as follows: Section heading (For example: C1. Sleep opportunity before an FDP or Standby) Introduction Points to note:
General (only used when there are ‘Points to note’ that apply across all appendices)
Appendix 1 (used when ‘Points to note’ apply specifically to one appendix)
Appendix 2, 3, 4 and 6 (appendices are combined when the ‘Points to note’ apply across
more than one appendix)
Appendix 5 (Appendix 5 is often specifically dealt with by its own ‘Points to note’ as it is
structured differently and approaches similar fatigue risks in a different manner).
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C1. Sleep opportunity before an FDP or standby
(Appendices 1, 2, 4 and 6) and use of 8 hours immediately before commencing an FDP (Appendix 5)
C1.1 Introduction An FCM is required to have access to suitable sleeping accommodation during the ODP prior to an assigned FDP, to meet their obligation to adequately prepare for the upcoming FDP. They must have access to suitable sleeping accommodation without, under normal circumstances, being interrupted by any requirement of the Operator for a period of 8 consecutive hours (at least) in a set period immediately before the start of the FDP. The set period may vary depending on the appendix and whether the FCM is at home base or away from home base. There should be mutual understanding between the FCM and the Operator as to where the 8 consecutive hours sleep opportunity sits within the period preceding the FDP. It is intended that the FCM is not contacted by the Operator during the prior sleep opportunity except in a manner that could reliably be expected not to interrupt the FCM if they were asleep. Normal circumstances refer to those circumstances where the Operator wishes to preserve the prior sleep opportunity. Abnormal circumstances refer to the case where the Operator needs to contact the FCM and it is understood that this will mean that the prior sleep opportunity has been interrupted. The FCM will then not be able to commence the FDP without completing a period of prior sleep opportunity commencing from the end of the interruption. An example of when this might occur is if the Operator needs urgent information from the FCM such as airworthiness related information about an aircraft the FCM flew in the previous FDP and the Operator has decided it cannot wait until the prior sleep opportunity is over.
Example: If the commute time at a particular away base location is 15 minutes, then the Operator must ensure the ODP allows for:
commute to and from the suitable sleeping accommodation
a period sufficient for meeting the reasonable requirements of bodily functioning (i.e.
eating, drinking, toileting, washing and dressing, as well as the required minimum sleep
opportunity).
In this case, the sleep opportunity potentially could start 9 hours before the start time of the FDP and end one hour before the start time of the FDP.
The requirement for prior sleep opportunity may result in an increased minimum ODP at some locations if the commute time is so long that the remaining period is not sufficient for the prior sleep opportunity. The following table can be used to determine the required minimum ODP.
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Table 2: Difference in local time between locations
Requirement Time required ODP
Commute time to suitable sleeping accommodation
____ hours : minutes
Determine minimum ODP using the limits in Section C9.ODP
limits and enter below:
Sufficient time for the reasonable requirements of bodily functioning such as eating, drinking, toileting, washing and dressing
____ hours : minutes
Prior sleep opportunity 8 hours
Commute time from suitable sleeping accommodation to sign-on
____ hours : minutes
Total time ____ hours : minutes _____ hours
Actual Minimum ODP (higher of two totals in the row above)
____ hours : minutes
Where an FCM is interrupted during sleep opportunity, the FCM’s capacity to adequately prepare for
their next FDP is affected; therefore, this may affect the FCMs fitness for duty before the start of, or
during the next FDP.
C1.2 Points to note
General
Where there is the requirement for prior sleep opportunity, the operations manual should have:
the Operator’s policy for managing the prior sleep opportunity requirement that identifies
where the sleep opportunity will be situated with reference the start time of the FDP for
home base and for away base locations. This policy should be determined after
consultation with FCMs.
procedures directing the Operator’s employees not to interrupt the FCM’s 8 consecutive
hours sleep opportunity when making contact with FCMs prior to the start time of an FDP
that has not been delayed.
for operations that have had one or more delays to an FDP start time, that are each less
than 10 hours, while contact should be minimised, the procedures need only relate to
protection of the sleep opportunity prior to the originally assigned FDP start time.
for operations that have had a single delay to the FDP start time, that is 10 hours or more,
procedures that need only apply to the sleep opportunity prior to the start of the delayed
FDP and no longer require protection of a sleep opportunity prior to the originally assigned
FDP.
procedures detailing specified contact methods and protocols that have proven to be
effective at not interrupting the FCM’s prior sleep opportunity, as well as identifying and
communicating suitable times of contact.
Note: These procedures should be in a form that is clear and readily available to the Operator’s employees who are involved in rostering activities, as well as affected FCMs.
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procedures detailing a requirement to roster sufficiently in advance (also required under
subsection 14.11) to allow FCMs to plan adequate rest before their next assigned FDP.
While the nature of some types of operation make planning with any degree of
certainty challenging, the Operator should have procedures that have the capacity to
publish the roster sufficiently in advance of flights covered by the roster, with a
consistent lead time, and this period is communicated to all FCMs. While late changes
to rosters are understandable, it is important that Operators are aware that these
changes should be kept to a minimum.
Note: Operators should be aware that their FCMs may require some degree of certainty in organising their work/life balance, and more importantly from a fatigue management point-of-view, organising their sleep.
procedures should ensure each FCM is aware that they have a responsibility to make
appropriate use of the 8 consecutive hours sleep opportunity prior to commencing an
assigned FDP (or standby period, if standby is allowed by the applicable appendix) to
achieve adequate alertness for the assigned FDP.
Note: Required procedures could be as simple as ensuring FCMs, rostering personnel and all those that might have reason to contact an FCM prior to an FDP have been informed of this requirement upon induction to the company. They should all be made aware that any contact (other than in accordance with the Operator’s procedures) during the sleep opportunity period, has the potential to impact the FCMs fitness for duty for the subsequent FDP.
Appendix 1
The operations manual must have procedures to detail that:
an FCM must have 8 consecutive hours of sleep opportunity at home base within the 12
hours immediately preceding the start of an FDP
an FCM must have 8 consecutive hours of sleep opportunity if away from home base,
within 10 hours immediately preceding the start of an FDP.
This requirement only relates to FDPs, as there is no provision for standby and no considerations on the impact of delayed reporting in Appendix 1.
Appendices 2, 3 and 4
The requirement for sleep opportunity in Appendices 2, 3 and 4 are the same as those for Appendix 1, with the following differences. Sleep opportunity in Appendices 2, 3 and 4:
is also required prior to standby periods
incorporates the requirements that the sleep opportunity always relates to the original FDP
start time rather than the delayed start time when the delay is less than 10 hours
when there is a single delay of 10 or more hours, the prior sleep opportunity is then
required before the delayed start time.
Appendix 5
Appendix 5 deals with the requirement for a sleep opportunity prior to an FDP differently than the other appendices. Appendix 5 stipulates that:
if the Operator requires the FCM to perform non-flying duties in the eight hour period
immediately prior to the start of the FDP, the maximum allowable FDP is reduced by the
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duration of time it took to complete those non-flying duties or by 30 minutes (whichever is
greater)
the intent of this requirement is that the maximum FDP is reduced by any time away from
suitable sleeping accommodation that results from the operator requiring the performance
of non-flying duties. Therefore, any time spent commuting between suitable sleep
accommodation and the location where the Operator requires the non-flying duties to be
performed should also be included in the time it took to complete the duties
this requirement does not apply to an FCM voluntarily doing a task that would otherwise be
considered a duty. This is particularly the case if the FCM was doing the task as part of a
personal means of reducing anxiety
Operators should not take advantage of an FCM engaging in voluntary activities prior to an FDP that would otherwise be considered required duties. An Operator must not schedule FDPs in such a manner that there is so little time available prior to the flight that meeting the flight commencement time is only achievable if the FCM accomplishes the required activities prior to the FDP commencing. In this case the activities can no longer be considered voluntary.
Example: Not allowing sufficient time in the FDP for such activities as flight planning, weight and balance calculation because the FCM has, on previous occasions, completed these tasks voluntarily before the FDP commenced as a means of managing anxiety prior to the FDP.
Appendix 6
In Appendix 6 the requirement for prior sleep opportunity is the same as that for Appendix 1, although it always relates to the 12 hours immediately preceding the FDP or standby—whether at home base or away. Like Appendix 1, there is no consideration of delayed reporting in Appendix 6, as there is no provision for delayed reporting.
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C2. FDP and flight time limits
C2.1. Introduction The operations manual needs to include procedures (a roster system) to ensure that the FCM is not assigned an FDP longer than the number of hours specified in the operations manual. Procedures for complex operations must also factor in limitations such as:
those applicable to acclimatised crews
FCMs that are in a state of unknown acclimatisation
FCMs that are acclimatised to a location other than the location where the FDP started.
C.2.2. Points to note
General
Rostering procedures must ensure the FCM is assigned FDPs, standby periods and ODPs that do not require the FCM to breach a limit in the operations manual and each limit in the operations manual must not exceed the limits in the applicable appendix. Documented limits should be communicated to staff and the rostering practices should ensure that FDPs are assigned in such a manner that they provide sufficient allowance for the intended flight(s); as well as a sufficient period for pre- and post-flight duties that reasonably takes into account unavoidable requirements such as:
passenger check-in
passenger boarding duties
manifest, load and balance document completion
customs and immigration
pre-flight aircraft inspections and serving (replenish oils etc.)
post flight duties (i.e. flight and duty time data entry, aircraft cleaning, compressor washing,
and other pilot maintenance)
transit time from sign-on locations to the aircraft. (consequently sign –on times could be
base specific).
Training flights in a simulator are considered duty, and like all duty, must be included in an FDP if they are conducted prior to a flight and are not separated from that flight by at least a prior sleep opportunity. If the simulator training is conducted after the last flight in a duty period it does not need to be included in the FDP. Operators should not take advantage of an FCM engaging in voluntary activities prior to an FDP that would otherwise be considered required duties. An operator must not schedule FDPs in such a manner that there is so little time available prior to the flight that meeting the flight commencement time is only achievable if the FCM accomplishes the required activities prior to the FDP commencing. In this case the activities can no longer be considered voluntary.
Example: Not allowing sufficient time in the FDP for such activities as flight planning, weight and balance calculation, etc. because the FCM has on previous occasions completed these tasks voluntarily before the FDP commenced as a means of managing anxiety prior to the FDP.
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Appendix 1
For Appendix 1, regardless of the length of the FDP it must be contained within the period 0700 to 2200 local time (local time at the location where the FDP is to start). This requirement can be met by rostering guidelines that require any FDP be entirely contained between 0700 and 2200 local time. These guidelines should be in a form that is clear and readily available to the Operator’s employees involved in rostering activities, as well as affected FCMs. Operators should note the requirements of Part 3, Paragraph 14.3 (b) of CAO 48.1:
for an Operator conducting operations under Appendix 1, no FDP or flight time limit should
normally exceed:
9 hours in any one day (FDP limit)
7 hours in any one day (flight time limit).
the Operator must consider whether a hazard identification and risk management process
is required:
while Appendix 1 FDP and flight time limits are relatively restrictive and do not
specifically require dedicated hazard identification and risk management processes,
these processes may be required by other regulations (if those regulations require an
SMS). Depending on the nature of the activities, it may still be appropriate to tailor
limits for individual FCMs and potentially for particular tasks.
examples where this would be appropriate would be limiting FDPs for some activities
(i.e. intensive flying training or hot weather operations) and this would be the case
when considering new or inexperienced FCMs.
time zone changes may also be a relevant consideration.
Appendix 2
Complex multi-pilot public transport services are typically subject to crossing time zones, and therefore resulting in circadian disruption for FCMs. ‘Acclimatisation’ is a complex issue and CAO 48.1 attempts to address the issue by ensuring the impact on alertness of not having the FCM’s body clock or circadian rhythm aligned with the local time at a location is considered in the limits. CAO 48.1 defines an FCM as being in the state of acclimatisation at the start of an FDP or an ODP at a particular location, when:
the location differs by less than 2 hours from the location where the FCM was last
acclimatised
the FCM has remained in an acclimatised state since they were last acclimatised.
CAO 48.1 also goes on to define when an FCM is considered to be in an unknown state of acclimatisation and the method to become reacclimatised. Refer to APPENDIX D Determination of acclimatisation of this CAAP for guidance on acclimatisation and adaptation. In addition to these definitions, it is important that Operators understand how time zone adaptation can be individualised. The responsibility for managing the effects of time zone changes and acclimatisation is shared between the Operator and the FCM. The Operator shall provide adequate fatigue training, and should provide tools for staff to use when assessing their own alertness. The FCM has an obligation to then apply this to their situation when deciding their fitness for duty. FCMs should report to their Operator when they feel unfit for duty after crossing time zones. The Operator can then use these reports to assess whether their limitations and fatigue policies are adequate.
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For complex multi-pilot public transport operations, the operations manual must:
include a procedure for rostering staff for FDPs that is capable of differentiating between
FCMs in an acclimatised state and those in an unknown state of acclimatisation (according
to the definitions in subsection 7). The documented procedure should result in
determinations of acclimatised and unknown state of acclimatisation that either agree with
those of subsection 7 or result in more conservative determinations than subsection 7.
Conservative in this context would mean either or both of:
being classed as in an unknown state of acclimatisation earlier than if the
requirements of subsection 7 were used
requiring a longer adaptation period than that required by subsection 7.
include procedures capable of determining whether the FCM is in an acclimatised state and
if so, where they are acclimatised to, and conversely, when they are in an unknown state of
acclimatisation. These procedures must achieve the same outcome as that when using the
following table:
Table 3: Difference in local time between locations
Difference in local time between locations
Time since FCM commenced an FDP or an ODP at a location where last acclimatised
Less than 36 hours
36 hours or more
For a relevant location that has a difference in local time of less than 2 hours from a location where last acclimatised
FCM is acclimatised to the relevant location.
For a relevant location that has a difference in local time of 2 hours or more from a preceding location where last acclimatised
FCM remains acclimatised to the preceding location
where last acclimatised.
FCM is in an unknown state of acclimatisation.
The operations manual must have procedures for assigning FDPs to FCMs that do not exceed the operations manual limits for acclimatised FCMs when the FCM is acclimatised and the unknown state of acclimatised limits for FCMs that are in an unknown state of acclimatisation. In developing their procedures, Operators should keep in mind the following points:
When the FCM is acclimatised, the procedures must ensure the maximum FDP limit is
based on number of sectors and the acclimatised time that is the local time at the location
where an FCM is acclimatised (therefore this may not be the local time at the location
where the FDP is being commenced).
There must be procedures for identifying when an FCM has transitioned from an unknown
state of acclimatisation to being acclimatised, following a minimum period of adaptation.
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The limits in the operations manual must not exceed the limits in Appendix 2 for
acclimatised FCMs (Table 2.1) and FCMs in an unknown state of acclimatisation (Table
3.1)
For operations under Appendices 1, 3, 4, 5 or 6, which require the FCMs to cross time
zones in a single duty period (acting as an operating crew member or positioning), the
effect on alertness of circadian disruption as well as the effect of the reduced quality of
sleep in ODPs on alertness in subsequent FDPs need to be identified as potential fatigue
hazards and managed accordingly
While it is not necessary to adopt the same approach to reducing the maximum FDP and
flying time limits for those in an unknown state of acclimatisation as in subsection 7 and
Appendix 2, Operators who require FCMs to cross two or more time zones in a single duty
period must manage any identified increase in fatigue risk due to circadian disruption in an
acceptable manner
Risk management should reflect the extent to which Operators require FCMs to cross time
zones and the number of time zones crossed in any one duty period:
for instance, risk management may be as simple as increasing minimum ODPs by a
fixed amount equal with the number of time zones crossed in the preceding duty
periods for operations that only cross three or less time zones in any one duty period
ODP.
An example of a simple and yet potentially effective method is when an Operator that requires FCMs to fly to a distant international city to perform simulator training has procedures that require the rostering staff to provide a minimum of three days off-duty following return to home base, before commencing an FDP. This could be achieved coincident with any longer term off-duty requirements such as the requirement in Appendix 4 for 36 consecutive hours off duty (including two local nights) in any consecutive 168 hour period.
C3. Increase in FDP limits by split duty
C3.1. Introduction If an Operator wishes to take advantage of split-duty operations, there must be procedures in the operations manual to ensure that FCMs are aware of their entitlements to a predefined rest period. The Operator also needs to show that the FCMs have access to suitable resting or suitable sleeping accommodation (as required by the roster) and are relieved of all work duties during this time. Verification of an Operator’s facilities for suitable resting and suitable sleeping accommodation may be required if the Operator’s facilities have not been assessed by CASA before. C3.2. Points to note
General
Split-duty operations are permitted in Appendices 2-6; however, there are some variations in the requirements across these appendices:
the requirements for conducting split-duty operations under Appendices 2, 3, 4 and 6 are
exactly the same with the exception of the allowable period of the FDP following the split-
duty rest period is one hour longer for Appendix 2 and 3 (6 hours) than allowed under
Appendix 4 and 6 (5 hours).
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the requirements for conducting split-duty operations under Appendix 5 differ significantly
from those of all other appendices (refer to Appendix 5)
the procedures should ensure FCMs are not disturbed during the split-duty rest period
Operators should have procedures to assess the suitability of the sleeping accommodation
or suitable resting accommodation that is provided by the Operator when the FCM is not at
their own home. This assessment must meet the minimum standard set out in the definition
section of the Order. Assessments should be ongoing to ensure continued achievement of
the standard over subsequent uses of the accommodation.
Things for the Operator to consider:
the management of change to the suitable sleeping or resting accommodation
managed
a reporting mechanism for providing feedback on the standard of the suitable
sleeping or resting accommodation
consideration of the standard of suitable sleeping or resting accommodation in a
formal periodic review process.
Appendices 2, 3, 4 and 6
Operations manual procedures should:
reflect the requirement for split-duty FDPs to be assigned to an FCM as part of the roster,
and be assigned so far in advance of the FDP as to provide the FCM to whom it applies to
with a reasonable opportunity to plan adequate rest before their duty
clearly ensure that, where an FDP contains a split-duty rest period, the FCM has enough
time allocated to travel to and from where the suitable sleeping or resting accommodation
is located, in addition to access to the suitable sleeping or resting accommodation for 4
consecutive hours (at least)
ensure that where there is access to suitable sleeping accommodation, the maximum FDP
may be increased by up to 4 hours. For Appendices 2 and 3 the maximum FDP must not
then exceed 16 hours
ensure that where there is access to suitable resting accommodation, the maximum FDP
may be increased by up to 2 hours
ensure that if a split-duty rest period includes any period between the hours of 2300 to
0529 (local time) the split-duty rest period is for a consecutive period of at least 7 hours,
with access to suitable sleeping accommodation. In these circumstances the procedures
must ensure:
the maximum FDP may be increased, if not already permitted, up to 16 hours for
Appendix 2 and 3, and up to 15 hours for Appendices 4 and 6
there is no allowed discount or reduction of the FDP for the purposes of determining
the minimum length of the subsequent ODP or to cumulative duty time calculations.
Note: For Appendix 2, this requirement is based on 2300 to 0529 (acclimatised time) unless the FCM is in an unknown state of acclimatisation, in which case, local time is used.
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ensure that any remaining portion of an FDP following a split-duty rest period will be no
longer than 6 hours for Appendices 2 and 3 and no longer than 5 hours for Appendices 4
and 6.
For the purposes of CAO 48.1, the time spent in the split-duty rest period is always duty and is included as a part of the FDP. A split-duty rest period spent at suitable sleeping accommodation is a period where fatigue is being reduced; therefore, an allowance has been made to reduce the impact of the length of the FDP on the subsequent minimum required ODP and cumulative duty assessments. This allowance is as follows:
specifically for determining the required minimum ODP following an FDP, when that FDP
contains a split-duty rest period at suitable sleeping accommodation, the FDP can be
considered to be 2 hours shorter than it actually was (50% of the first 4 hours of the split-
duty rest period).
specifically for the purposes of assessing whether an FCM is within the applicable
cumulative duty limits, an FDP which contains a split-duty rest period at suitable sleeping
accommodation can be taken to be 2 hours shorter in length than it actually was (50% of
the first 4 hours of the split-duty rest period).
Note: This allowance is not available when the split-duty rest period includes any period between the hours of 2300 to 0529 (local time). For Appendix 2 this requirement is based on 2300 to 0529 (acclimatised time), unless the FCM is in an unknown state of acclimatisation, in which case local time is used.
Appendix 5
Ideally, procedures should reflect that split-duty rest periods be assigned to an FCM so far in advance of the FDP to provide the FCM to whom it applies with a reasonable opportunity to plan adequate rest before their duty. For operations specifically under Appendix 5 the procedures may reflect the more relaxed requirement that allow a split-duty rest period and commensurate extension to the FDP to be initiated and achieved after the FDP has already started, regardless of whether it was originally assigned to the FCM. The quality and detail of the required procedures should reflect the likely increase in fatigue risk of taking advantage of this provision particularly given the increased risk of not being able to achieve restorative sleep during the split-duty rest period at suitable sleeping accommodation when it is required at such short notice. Procedures must ensure that:
a split-duty rest period (of at least 3 consecutive hours) at suitable sleeping
accommodation must be achieved before the maximum FDP operations manual limit can
be increased by the duration of the split-duty rest period
a split-duty rest period (of at least 4 consecutive hours) at suitable resting accommodation
must be achieved before the maximum FDP operations manual limit can be increased by a
maximum of 2 hours
the entire 3 consecutive hour minimum period of access to suitable sleeping
accommodation or 4 hours at suitable resting accommodation is achieved prior to the end
of the maximum FDP allowed for the start time of the FDP prior to an increase to the FDP
limit being permitted
any remaining portion of an FDP following a split-duty rest period will be no longer than 6
hours (unless an extension is permitted).
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C4. Increase in FDP and flight time limits in an augmented crew operation
Note: Applicable to Appendix 2 only C4.1. Introduction Operations with more than the minimum required FCMs, to allow for one or more FCMs to be relieved of duty during flight time, can increase the maximum FDP and flight time limits in public transport services. This is known as an augmented crew operation. Unless this is being conducted under an FRMS, increasing the maximum allowable FDP by adding extra FCMs is only permitted in operations under Appendix 2. C4.2. Points to note In order to prohibit partial crew changes, procedures for assigning FCMs to an augmented crew FDP must ensure that the FCMs that are part of the operating crew at the end of the FDP are the same FCMs that were part of the operating crew at the start of the FDP.
For safety reasons, this is a critical condition. If, for example, a medical emergency required the disembarkation of an FCM during the FDP, for the flight to continue all of the FCMs must be replaced with a new crew, commencing a new FDP. It is considered that managing differing FDP limits and lengths of duty and flight time, as well as allocation of in-flight rest, for each FCM is potentially too difficult for a crew and, in particular, the captain to manage safely. Given the likely pressure to support the crew and achieve the task, having one or more crew members with a significantly different fatigue level could create disparity (i.e. in the approach to extensions). Extensions should be a decision that considers the fatigue level of each FCM independently; however, when only one FCM needs the extension, the other crew members may not support the decision to not extend. Additionally, one fatigue mitigator for a crew is the general extrapolation of the FCM’s level of fatigue to the crew. When one crew member identifies that they feel fatigued they should bring it up with the crew for discussion and management and/or start to monitor the rest of the crew more closely. If a crew includes significantly different duty times, understanding when each is fatigued becomes far more difficult and less likely to be managed effectively. It is considered that this added level of complexity should be managed under an FRMS.
Procedures for assigning FDPs to FCMs should ensure that when determining the maximum FDP the acclimatised time is used until such time as the FCM is in an unknown state of acclimatisation. In the case of an FCM in an unknown state of acclimatisation, the maximum FDP is based on whether the ODP immediately preceding the FDP is less than 30 hours, or 30 hours or more (see Tables 5.1 and 5.2 of Appendix 2). Clause 5 of Appendix 2 stipulates the minimum time an FCM requires the in-flight crew rest facility to be available. These times are only minimums and substantially longer times in in-flight rest may be required to maintain or restore adequate alertness. As a guide, the augmented crew FDP limits in clause 5 of Appendix 2 assumes that the majority of the FDP is flight time, and the available rest/sleep time (cruise phase) is fully utilised and is reasonably evenly distributed amongst FCMs. Therefore, the procedures in the operations manual should reflect this goal of fully utilising available in-flight periods for gaining in-flight rest. It is for this
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reason that the number of sectors is limited for an augmented crew operation, to ensure FDPs contain longer sector lengths that allow adequate time for rest/sleep. In order to use augmented crew operations the operations manual must detail required augmented crew procedures. Appropriate augmented crew procedures should include:
the requirement to designate a pilot responsible for making command decisions at all times
that the PIC is accessing in-flight rest
the requirement for a comprehensive briefing prior to FCMs rotating into and out of in-flight
rest
a means of prioritising the in-flight rest requirements so that they do not take priority over
the need to optimise the crew experience levels on the flight deck for managing planned
and unplanned operational threats
designation of a responsible person amongst the crew for scheduling in-flight crew rest and
reassessing crew rest schedules (in the event of unforeseen operational circumstances,
particularly in-flight diversions or air returns)
management of the possible effects of sleep inertia on performance when awakening from
deep sleep
procedures that ensure other crew members are aware of the necessity to respect the in-
flight rest requirement and avoid interrupting and reduce unnecessary noise that could
disturb the sleep of FCMs utilising in-flight rest.
Crew rest facility
Crew rest facilities need careful design and consideration in order to permit adequate in-flight rest and sleep requirements for crew. Classes of crew rest facilities are defined in subsection 6. The Class 2 crew rest facility is a horizontal or near horizontal seat. For guidance, it may acceptable to use a seat which is not entirely horizontal if the seat was designed to criteria aimed to enable a person to sleep in a horizontal or near horizontal position. CASA may need to undertake an assessment of this facility, which may require the assessor to:
talk to crews
be present on a proving flight
make a physical check of the facility.
In addition, when determining the acceptability of in-flight rest facility specifications, the factors discussed in section 4.4 of the main body of this CAAP should be taken into account. CASA may conduct a physical assessment of the adequacy of in-flight rest facilities that may include consideration of the dynamic issues in-flight.
C5. Delayed reporting time
C5.1. Introduction An FCM has an obligation to use their preceding ODP and prior sleep opportunity period in order to be sufficiently rested and alert to perform their duties safely in the rostered FDP. If the start time of an FDP is delayed, the Operator must consider that an extended delay will impact the FCM’s preparation and overall risk of accruing a higher fatigue level by the end of the FDP. Delayed reporting requirements must be met to allow for the assigned FDP start time to be delayed for any period. As with other CAO 48.1 limits there must be documented procedures that explain the process by which reporting times are delayed in accordance with the limitations.
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Additionally, if the operations manual contains documented procedures that specifically address how reporting times are delayed without impacting the prior sleep opportunity, in accordance with the limits contained in the applicable appendix/appendices, then the Operator is permitted to make the decision to delay the FDP:
up until 2 hours before the start time when the FCM is at home base
up until 1 hour before start time when they are not at home base.
C5.2. Points to note
Appendix 1
Delayed reporting is not specifically prohibited in the provisions of Appendix 1. However, the requirement in paragraph 14.11 applies, regarding rosters to be published sufficiently in advance of the FDP to provide the FCM a reasonable opportunity to plan rest before the start time. In Appendix 1, prior sleep opportunity is always associated with the actual, assigned FDP. If the Operator interrupts or disturbs the sleep of an FCM in the period of the prior sleep opportunity then the FCM has not met the requirement for a prior sleep opportunity and cannot commence the FDP. The operations manual must have procedures for protecting prior sleep opportunity.
Appendices 2, 3 and 4
Delays of less than 10 hours - without operations manual procedures If an Operator is operating under Appendices 2, 3 or 4, and does not have operations manual procedures that specifically address delays of less than 10 hours, the Operator can only ever delay an FDP start time if the FCM is notified at least 10 hours before the original reporting time. When the FCM is notified of a delay less than 10 hours before the original reporting time, despite the fact that they might report later, the FDP is deemed to have started at the original reporting time. In this case, the normal limit for the FDP duration applies (i.e. maximum FDP is based on the original reporting time and can only be re-assigned to the extent of the maximum re-assignment limits). When informing an FCM that they can report at a later time than the original FDP reporting time, the Operator must meet the requirements for sleep opportunity before an FDP. The Operator needs to take this into consideration when deciding on the time and manner of notifying the FCM of any delay. It is unacceptable to continually delay an FDP by short periods while the FDP is still 10 or more hours in the future. To continue to delay the FDP in this manner does not provide the FCM with a reasonable opportunity to plan for, or achieve adequate rest before the resulting FDP (required under paragraph 14.11). If the Operator delays an FDP without providing 10 or more hours’ notice before the original reporting time, and then cancels the flight, the minimum ODP requirements apply before they can be assigned another FDP. The required ODP starts at the later of either:
the original FDP start time
or
the time the FCM actually ceases any non-flying duty.
The minimum ODP need only be based on the length of the actual duty achieved; however, it can be no less than the minimum ODP required following an FDP.
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Delays of less than 10 hours – with operations manual procedures Delaying a reporting time within 10 hours of the FDP start time is permitted if an Operator is operating under Appendices 2, 3 or 4, and has operations manual procedures that specifically address delaying a reporting time within 10 hours of the FDP. There are no differences in the requirements of Appendices 2, 3 and 4. Operations manual procedures should reflect the following consideration and requirements which are also described in the Table Table 4: For delays of less than 4 hours – the assumption is that, while the FCM may well be able to rest, it is unlikely that they will be able to return to sleep. If they remain awake for this period the FCM is accruing fatigue; however, they should be able to accrue fatigue at a lower rate by managing their activities, rather than if they were on duty.
For delays of more than 4 hours – the Operator, for rostering purposes, must assume that
the FCM has been awake for a reasonable period and is accruing fatigue; therefore, the
maximum FDP limits are not appropriate without modification.
For any delay – the maximum FDP limit cannot exceed the maximum FDP limit based on
the original reporting time; however, if a reporting time following a delay requires a lower
maximum FDP limit than that of the original FDP, then this now becomes the maximum
FDP limit. In essence, when start times are delayed and the maximum FDP limit based on
that new start time increases the Operator cannot take advantage of this; however, when it
decreases they must abide by it. This is because maximum FDP limits based on start times
after 11am reflect the greater likelihood that the FCM has been awake for an extended
period prior to the start of the FDP, and if the maximum FDP limit is utilised they will finish
their FDP in, or just before the WOCL.
An Operator must have procedures that set out the manner in which the FCM will be
notified of the delay. That taken into account, the requirement to protect the eight hour prior
sleep opportunity either:
in the 12 hours before the original start time if the FCM is at home base
in the 10 hours before the original start time if the FCM is away from home base.
For delays of less than 10 hours that are carried out in accordance with the operations
manual procedures and therefore meet the requirements of delayed reporting, the time
between the original reporting time and the delayed reporting time is considered to be
standby.
The following flow diagram may assist in understanding the requirements and provide an
example of a procedure for inclusion in an operations manual. In the diagram’ table FD’
refers to a maximum flight duty period limit table and ‘table DR’ refers to a table of limits
that contains the cumulative flight and duty limits:
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Figure 3: Delayed reporting decision flow chart
There is a need to delay when an FCM is to report for duty
o Recalculate the new max FDP limit as per table FD.o Ensure the proposed duty can fit within the limit (including
cumulative limits) as per table DRo Ensure sleep opportunity requirements are met (particularly for
delays of 10 or more hours) .
Can the FCM be advised more
than 2 hours (if at home) or 1 hour (if away) before
their original (or new) reporting time?
The last revised reporting time
remains in effect
Notify FCM via the communication
protocol
No
Yes
Update roster with period between
new reporting time and original as
standby.
Is the delay 10 or more hours?
Update roster with period between
new reporting time and original as off
duty.
YesNo
Is the planned flight cancelled?
The FCM must have an ODP of at least 10 hours from the
time they were informed. Modify
the roster accordingly.
YesNo further changes. No
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Rather than phoning the FCM directly, examples of procedures that manage notification and protect the prior sleep opportunity include:
requiring that the FCM ‘checks in’ with the Operator after they wake-up
or
organising a system whereby the hotel/motel staff delay the requested wake-up
call and place a message under the door of the FCM’s room.
Example procedure:
All communications between Company ABC and an FCM during an ODP or that could impact on the FCM’s prior sleep opportunity must be in accordance with the following communication protocol:
An FCM must only be contacted during their sleep opportunity if there is to
be a delay in FDP commencement time and then only by SMS.
The FCM should ensure that their mobile is on ‘silent’ during sleep
opportunity periods to, as best as possible, ensure uninterrupted
restorative sleep.
The FCM must check their SMS messages and reply to any SMS notifying
the FCM of a delay, before leaving the location of the sleep opportunity.
An SMS sent and shown as delivered is deemed to be notification
however the FCM shall still reply to the SMS before leaving the location of
the sleep opportunity to confirm they understand the message.
The timing and content of SMS messages (and phone calls) regarding
delays will be logged in the rostering system.
Operators should have procedures that describe the way in which FCMs are notified of the
delay prior to leaving their sleeping accommodation.
Operators should also have procedures for managing when notification of the decision to
delay will not meet the minimum requirements set out in the operations manual.
Procedures need to adequately reflect the required adjustments to maximum FDP limits when the start time is delayed. The procedures for managing maximum FDP limits should reflect the requirements listed in Table 4:
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Table 4: Determining maximum FDP for delayed reporting time
Delay
Determining maximum FDP for delayed FDP reporting time (use operations manual maximum FDP limit table)
New maximum FDP limit is higher than original maximum FDP limit
New maximum FDP limit is lower than original maximum FDP limit
Single or multiple delay/s that total < 4 hours
Retain original maximum FDP limit.
Use the new, lower maximum FDP limit.
Single or multiple delay/s that total between 4 – 10 hours
Step 1: If maximum FDP limit at 4 hour mark is higher than original maximum FDP limit use original maximum FDP limit
Step 1: If maximum FDP limit at 4 hour mark is lower than original maximum FDP limit use maximum FDP limit at 4 hour mark
Step 2: Reduce step 1 maximum FDP limit by any time the new reporting time is later than the 4 hour mark
Step 2: Reduce step 1 maximum FDP limit by any time the new reporting time is later than the 4 hour mark
A single delay of
10 hours or longer
Use new maximum FDP limit for delayed reporting time.
Note: The delay column refers to the total delay, rather than any single delay. This is an important consideration, as an Operator may initially require a delay of 2 hours and then make a further delay to the start time of 3 hours. For the purposes of determining the maximum FDP, this represents a total delay of 5 hours and must be dealt with as a five hour delay rather than two delays each of less than 4 hours.
Cancellations where sufficient notice is provided – with, or without, operations manual
procedures
The cancellation subclause in each appendix sets out the minimum off-duty requirements
when an Operator cancels an upcoming FDP.
If an Operator does not have detailed delayed reporting procedures in the operations
manual for delays where there is less than 10 hours’ notice, the FCM must receive the
cancellation notice at least 10 hours before the original reporting time.
If an Operator does have detailed delayed reporting procedures in the operations manual
for delays where there is less than 10 hours’ notice, the FCM must receive the cancellation
notice before they leave their sleeping accommodation:
1 hours’ notice before FDP if the FCM is away from home base
2 hours’ notice if the FCM is at home base.
In both cases, the FCM must then have at least 10 consecutive hours off-duty, beginning from the time the FCM receives the cancellation notification, before they can be assigned a new FDP under their appendix.
If the notification of cancellation does not meet the notification requirements above, then for the
purposes of determining the minimum ODP, the FDP is considered to have commenced at:
the original starting time
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or
the last delayed reporting time that was notified, in accordance with procedures in the
operation manual.
The required minimum ODP must then be taken from that time or the cessation of any duties.
The FCM must complete the minimum ODP required by the appendix being worked under
before the FCM can be assigned another FDP even if no flight occurred.
Appendix 5
There are no provisions in Appendix 5 that address delayed reporting; therefore, it is not specifically prohibited. The requirement in paragraph 14.11 regarding publishing rosters sufficiently in advance to provide the FCM a reasonable opportunity to plan rest before the start time of the FDP applies. It is accepted that the nature of the activities conducted under this appendix will often result in changes to the FDP on the day of operations. While this is expected, the potential for increased fatigue risk must also be investigated and, where identified, managed. This means that in many cases delaying an FDP start time will result in an increased fatigue hazard purely because the FCM is no longer able to achieve a rest period that would have been more appropriate for the delayed FDP. Paragraph 15.2 requires procedures to manage identified fatigue risk to an acceptable level. As long as fatigue risk is managed to an acceptable level, an Operator may delay a start time under this appendix. The requirement to ensure the prior 8 hours are free of duties remains for whatever start time is maintained. Any duty performed within this eight hour period must be reduced from the allowable maximum FDP for that start time (minimum reduction is 30 minutes). If an Operator anticipates delaying the start time of FDPs for other than relatively short delays (e.g. delays of more than 2 hours) the operations manual should contain procedures that ensure the increased risk is managed. Examples of procedures that might be used to manage increased fatigue risk due to delayed reporting are:
managing the process of contacting FCMs to notify them of the delay
prohibiting increasing FDP maximum limits when a delayed start time would otherwise
allow it
if a delayed start time requires a reduced maximum FDP period, rather than the start time
before the delay, that reduced maximum FDP limit applies
providing a maximum limit on extent to which a start time can be delayed in total. It is
advisable to have a policy that does not allow delaying the start time by more than a total of
4-5 hours past the original start time, unless specific circumstances indicate this would not
result in an unacceptable fatigue risk.
Appendix 6
There are no provisions in Appendix 6 that address delayed reporting; therefore, it is not specifically prohibited. The requirement in paragraph 14.11 regarding publishing rosters sufficiently in advance of the FDP to provide the FCM a reasonable opportunity to plan rest before the start time applies. As long as fatigue risk is managed to an acceptable level, an Operator may delay a start time under this appendix. In many cases, delaying an FDP start time will result in an increased fatigue hazard purely because the FCM is no longer able to achieve a rest period that would have been more appropriate for the time of start of the delayed FDP. Paragraph 15.2 requires procedures to manage identified fatigue risk to an acceptable level.
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This appendix has the requirement for prior sleep opportunity that is always associated with the actually assigned FDP. If a start time is delayed, the Operator must be able to demonstrate how the protection of prior sleep opportunity is achieved for the delayed start time. Any interruption or disturbance initiated by the Operator should not infringe on the prior sleep opportunity. If an Operator anticipates delaying the start time of FDPs for other than relatively short delays for example, delays of more than 2 hours, the operations manual should contain procedures that ensure the increased risk is managed. Examples of procedures that might be used to manage increased fatigue risk due to delayed reporting are:
managing the process of contacting FCMs to notify them of the delay
prohibiting increasing FDP maximum limits when a delayed start time would otherwise
allow it
requiring that, if a delayed start time requires a reduced maximum FDP period (than the
start time before the delay), that reduced maximum FDP limit applies
providing a maximum limit on the extent to which a start time can be delayed in total. It is
advisable to have a policy that does not allow delaying the start time by more than a total of
4-5 hours past the original start time unless specific circumstances indicate this would not
result in an unacceptable fatigue risk.
C6. Reassignment and extension
C6.1. Introduction
Reassignment
These provisions set limits on the extent to which a rostered or assigned FDP can be modified for an FCM once the FDP has commenced. Reassigning refers to increasing an FDP while remaining within the operations manual limit for that activity. Alternatively, extension refers to increasing the FDP so that it exceeds the FDP limit in the operations manual. A re-assigned FDP can subsequently be extended under the extension clause once unforseen operational circumstances are encountered. There may be occasions when an FCM who has already commenced an FDP needs to be reassigned (e.g. when operational requirements require an FCM to take over another’s rostered sectors). There are restrictions over how reassignments are managed in order to mitigate any adverse fatigue risks associated with changing the FCM’s duty expectations.
Extension
An Operator must have reasonable expectations based on previous experience and data, that the assigned FDP can be achieved within the operations manual limits. The maximum FDP limits in all appendices are not designed with the expectation that there would be extensions. On the contrary, it is expected that, should the operational need for an extension arise, it may not be possible because the FCM does not report fit for the extension. The requirements for extensions is included in order to have appropriate flexibility when Operators need to extend an FDP when unforeseen operational circumstances occur, and where the FCM is fit for the extension. The decision to extend an FDP is taken prior to a flight commencing (usually the last flight of the FDP) when all crew members have a clear choice whether or not to continue, based on their assessment of their fitness for duty. The intention behind unforeseen circumstances (refer to definitions) and subsequent extensions is for Operators to roster FDPs appropriately; and not to continually use flight and duty times to their
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maximum limits, resulting in over-use of extensions when previous experience is sufficient to indicate a greater time allowance is required. For operations under Appendix 1 it must be apparent from records of the Operator’s previous operations that an extension could reasonably be considered unlikely. When extensions do occur, an Operator is required to collect sufficient information from each extension occurrence to enable further study and fine tuning of the rostering process to better protect against extensions in the future. The Operator is required to submit the extension report to CASA within 14 days of the extension occurring for all operations that are not conducted under Appendix 5. It is acceptable for these reports to be sent as emails. In both re-assignment and extension it triggers a requirement that in addition to the Operator independently assessing the fatigue risk associated with the proposed extension the Operator must check with the FCM that they are fit to achieve the modified FDP. While the FCM remains the last line of defence, the reality is that they are not always best placed to properly assess or mitigate that increased fatigue risk, particularly if they themselves are experiencing high levels of fatigue or high levels of pressure to complete a task. There are limitations on extensions in all appendices and there must be acceptable procedures for the application and management of extensions in all submitted operations manuals. C6.2. Points to note
Appendix 1
Reassignment There are no specific limits on re-assignment of an FDP in Appendix 1; therefore, there is no requirement for procedures in the operations manual that specifically address reassignment of FDPs. The Appendix 1 rules, as a rule-set, are considered sufficiently restrictive to absorb changes on the day of operations in assigned FDPs that do not exceed the appendix FDP limits, without representing an unreasonable increase in fatigue risk.
Extensions The procedures should clearly limit the use of extensions to those circumstances where:
the FDP has already commenced
the decision to extend beyond the FDP and/or flight time limit is taken prior to both the last
flight and FDP, or flight time being exceeded
the circumstances that required the extension could reasonably be classed as unforeseen
the FCM will not exceed a cumulative flight time limit during the extension
the extension is operationally necessary to complete the planned duty.
There must also be a documented requirement whereby the extension does not occur unless the affected FCM has been consulted and has had an opportunity to consider and agree they are fit for the extension. It is not permitted for an extension to result in an FCM exceeding the limit in subclause 2.1 that requires all assigned FDPs be completed by 2200 (local time).
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Appendices 2, 3, 4 and 6
Reassignment There are limitations on re-assignment in Appendices 2, 3, 4 and 6 and these limitations are substantially the same for each of these appendices. The only difference between these provisions, are for Appendix 2 and 3 there is the requirement to consider the reassigned FDP in terms of the new number of sectors when establishing whether the reassigned FDP is within the maximum FDP limits. For each of these appendices there is the requirement that the operations manual procedures addressing re-assignment need to adequately reflect these provisions. Procedures should therefore, at a minimum:
identify that, when reassigning an FDP, 4 hours is the maximum increase to the originally
assigned FDP
identify that a reassigned FDP must not exceed maximum operations manual FDP limits
(for Appendix 2 or 3 operations this limit is derived after consideration of the reassigned
number of sectors)
identify that a reassigned FDP must not cause the FCM to exceed longer term or
cumulative limits. Examples are that the reassigned FDP cannot cause the FCM to exceed
the longer term minimum ODPs (i.e. 36 consecutive hours off-duty in the 168 hour period
before the projected end of the reassigned FDP, or the cumulative flight and duty limits
applicable to the appendix under which the FCM is operating)
identify that a reassigned FDP must not cause the FCM to exceed the limit on late night
operations (LNOs) for that appendix. The procedures must require that the limit on LNOs
for that appendix be considered when determining whether the modified FDP is allowed
and whether the reassignment will mean subsequent rostered FDPs will then exceed the
LNOs limit
require that the FCM be consulted to ensure they consider themselves fit for the modified
FDP.
It is not prohibited for the Operator to reassign an FDP to an FCM as an augmented crew member when the FCM was originally assigned to a non-augmented crew and vice versa. Because the FCM will need to utilise in-flight rest, the Operator should be aware that there is potential for greater fatigue risk if the FCMs preparation was not suited to an augmented crew operation. There is also potential for greater fatigue risk if the FCM was expecting an augmented crew FDP with assigned in-flight rest opportunities and is re-assigned to a non-augmented crew FDP. This increased risk should be managed by the Operator and may require limitations on the use of this practice be in place.
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Extensions The procedures should clearly limit the use of extensions to those circumstances where:
the FDP has already commenced
the decision to extend beyond the FDP and/or flight time limit is taken prior to both the last
flight and prior to the FDP or flight time limit being exceeded
the circumstances that required the extension could reasonably be classed as unforeseen
the FCM will not exceed a cumulative duty or cumulative flight time limit during the
extension
the extension is necessary to complete the planned duty
There must also be a documented requirement whereby the extension does not occur unless the affected FCM has been consulted and has had an opportunity to consider and agree they are fit for the extension. This also necessitates consideration of whether the training provided is sufficient to ensure the FCM understands what they are doing when they evaluate their fatigue risk for the purposes of agreeing to an extension. It is permitted for an extension to result in an FCM exceeding the longer term off-duty requirement of 36 consecutive hour’s off-duty in a 168 hour period projected to the end of the assigned FDP. An extension to an FDP that results in the FDP including more than 30 minutes between the hours of 2300 and 0530 does not need to be taken into account when determining whether the FCM meets the requirements of the LNOs clause as this limit only applies to what was assigned (or subsequently reassigned), not an extension to the assigned FDP. The Operator must also have a documented procedure for facilitating the writing and collection of extension reports. This requires sufficient information from each extension occurrence to enable further study and fine tuning of the rostering process to better protect against extensions in the future.
Appendix 5
Reassignment There are no provisions in Appendix 5 that address reassignments. Therefore, it is not specifically prohibited. The requirement in paragraph 14.11 regarding publishing rosters sufficiently in advance of the FDP and standby period to provide the FCM a reasonable opportunity to plan rest before the start time applies. It is accepted that the activities conducted under this appendix will often, by their nature, result in changes to the FDP on the day of operations. While this is expected, the potential for increased fatigue risk must also be considered and where unacceptable risk is identified, managed to acceptable levels. Depending on the nature of operations, an identified fatigue risk stemming from consistent or repetitive reassigning FDPs might require procedures be developed to limit the use of reassignment in response to, or in anticipation of, excessive fatigue risk. Another consideration is that the Appendix 5 limit relates to FDPs that are assigned, as well as conducted; therefore, the limit of four LNOs in any 168 hour period, applies to the number of FDPs that include any time between midnight and 0459 regardless of whether the FDPs were assigned prior to the day of operations or modified on the day of operations. The Operator should have a procedure for ensuring re-assignments do not result in exceeding the limit of four FDPs that include any time between midnight and 0459 in any consecutive 168 hour period.
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Extensions Due to the nature of some types of high pressure aerial work activities (i.e. aero-medical evacuation), there can be greater pressures for extensions in comparison to public transport operations. FCM fitness for duty could be at increased risk under these high-pressure circumstances and should be risk managed accordingly, by the Operator, as per the ‘Additional AOC holder obligations’ requirements in CAO 48.1. In this appendix, the length of the required extension over the maximum FDP limit, determines the required increase to the minimum ODP. Operations under Appendix 5 allow for a maximum extension of up to 4 hours. Each 30 minute period of extension (or part thereof) requires the subsequent minimum ODP to be increased by one hour. As with all other appendices there must be acceptable procedures for the application and management of extensions in an Operator’s operations manual. Extensions that result in the FDP (including any time between midnight and 0459) must be taken into account in the consideration of the limit of no more than four FDPs in any consecutive 168 hour period that include any time between midnight and 0459 (local time). The procedures should clearly limit the use of extensions to those circumstances where:
the FDP has already commenced
the extension is necessary to complete the planned duty.
There must also be a documented requirement whereby the extension does not occur unless the affected FCM has been consulted and has had an opportunity to consider and agree they are fit for the extension. This may require consideration of whether the training provided is sufficient to ensure the FCM understands what they are doing when they evaluate their fatigue risk for the purposes of agreeing to an extension. The Operator must also have a documented procedure for facilitating the writing and collection of extension reports. This requires sufficient information from each extension occurrence to enable further study and fine tuning of the rostering process to better protect against extensions in the future. There will inevitably be an increased tendency for FDP extensions due to operational requirements for aerial work Operators. In contrast to operations under the other appendices, there is no requirement to advise CASA about extensions.
C7. Standby limits
C7.1. Introduction Standby may be undertaken at home or at another place where suitable sleeping accommodation conditions exist. If standby is undertaken at the aerodrome, then it may be more likely for an FCM to be in a state of readiness whilst undertaking no actual work. This heightened state of readiness can introduce stress, which may increase fatigue and decrease alertness levels faster than at home or another location away from the airport. An important risk management strategy for any Operator using standby periods is to maximise the effectiveness of any rest/sleep opportunities that the FCM might have while being on standby. This means reducing contact to a minimum and, where possible, not including the FCM in operational deliberations and decision-making prior to the start of the FDP.
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It is important for Operators to note that for different FCMs there can be different ways to manage any additional stress, which may be present as a result of maintaining a higher level of alertness during standby. A strategy that FCMs might employ involves doing aviation-related activities while still on standby. Should an FCM decide to perform aviation-related tasks whilst on standby (entirely of their own volition), then this time is not to be considered as duty time. Operators should not take inappropriate advantage of this method of managing stress by then not allocating enough time to perform these, otherwise required duties, in the subsequent FDP.
C7.2. Points to note
General
Under all appendices, the procedures must include a means of making reliable assessments of suitable away from base sleeping accommodation that is proposed for use in a standby period. These assessments should be ongoing to ensure continued achievement of the minimum standard over subsequent uses of the accommodation.
Appendix 1
Although it is not specifically prohibited, there are no provisions in Appendix 1 that address standby. It was considered that standby should only be used when supported by the risk management requirements that apply to Appendices 2-6. If an Operator wishes to hold the FCM on standby for FDPs that occur between 0700 and 2200 (local time) then, in accordance with paragraph 14.11, they need to be rostered for that standby period in such a way that the FCM is provided a reasonable opportunity to plan adequate rest for the possible FDP. In addition to this, Appendix 1 has the requirement for prior sleep opportunity that is always associated with the actual assigned FDP. If an Operator wishes to use standby, they are required to have procedures in place that are acceptable to CASA and accurately demonstrates how the prior sleep opportunity is achieved for those FDP start times that occur during rostered standby periods. Any interruption or disturbance during the prior sleep opportunity period initiated by the Operator could infringe the prior sleep opportunity requirements.
Appendices 2, 3, 4 and 6
The procedures must include a means of ensuring that FCMs are not disturbed by company contact during the standby period. The procedures must ensure:
the FCM will not be held on standby for greater than a 16 hour period
that if the FCM is called out from standby after a 12 hour period on standby, the maximum
FDP limit that applies to that FCM is reduced by the length of time they are on standby in
excess of 12 hours
Example: If the FCM is called out at 8 pm, after 14 hours of standby for a 3 sector flight, the applicable maximum FDP of 9 hours must be reduced to 7 hours, as the FCM was on standby for 2 hours in excess of 12 hours.
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The procedures must ensure that if the FCM is not called-out from standby, the FCM completes a minimum ODP of at least 10 hours.
Appendix 5
If no callout occurs, there is no specific limit on the length of a continuous period of standby; therefore, continuous 24 hour periods of standby are possible. However, the FCM must meet the required longer term ODP requirements and these will ultimately require the FCM to end a continuous period of standby. Commencing an FDP marks the end of a standby period and the FCM cannot return to standby until the required minimum ODP has been undertaken. Standby cannot be used as a means of separating FDPs. Where an FDP takes place, followed by a break or rest period, once the minimum requirements of the split-duty provisions are met then a split-duty rest period should be used if a further period of flying duty is required. It is permissible for an FCM to return to standby after a period of duty in which no flight occurs; however, the maximum FDP limits following that period of duty are to be reduced by the amount of time spent on duty or 30 minutes (whichever is greater) while any part of that duty was performed within 8 hours of the subsequent commencement time of an FDP. The procedures must ensure that FCMs are not disturbed during the standby period, except to call the FCM out for an FDP or duty.
Note: Stress and fatigue can be accelerated if the FCM is required to undertake duties (e.g. office duties) while on standby.
C8. Positioning
C8.1. Introduction The positioning clause allows for continued duty after the FDP has finished and before an ODP has started, in order to transport the FCM to a location other than the one at which the FDP finished. This means that any time spent positioning does not need to be contained within the FDP limit. This also means that, while positioning, the FCM will not be taking any further role as part of an operating crew until a required ODP has been completed. The subsequent minimum ODP is based on the length of the FDP as well as the time spent positioning. When calculating displacement time for determination of acclimatisation (which can then have an impact on the minimum length of the following ODP) an Operator must also take any time zones crossed during the FCM’s positioning period into consideration. Section 7 of the Instrument relates solely to an FCM’s location and takes no account of the manner or role they played in getting there. When calculating cumulative duty, any time spent positioning must be included as it is deemed a task that is required to be carried out associated with the business of the Operator. C8.2. Points to note
Appendices 2, 3, 4 and 6
If an Operator intends to position an FCM at the completion of an FDP, there should be procedures to ensure:
the period spent positioning, along with the impact on displacement time, is considered
when determining the subsequent minimum ODP
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the period spent positioning is considered in the determination of cumulative duty time
the FCM does not participate as part of an operating crew during the period of positioning.
Positioning before flying duties is not specifically dealt with in the appendices. However, positioning before a flight or series of flights as, defined in subparagraph 6.2 (c), requires management by the Operator. If an Operator intends to position an FCM before a flight or series of flights, there should be procedures to ensure:
the time spent positioning counts to the FDP
the displacement time is considered when determining the subsequent minimum ODP
the period spent positioning is considered in the determination of cumulative duty time
the FCM does not participate as part of an operating crew during the period of positioning.
The positioning ‘sector’ does not need to be considered as a ‘sector’ when the number of sectors is a factor in determining the maximum allowable duration of an FDP.
C9. ODP limits
C9.1. Introduction It is essential that an Operator and FCM understand that an ODP is a period free of all duties and standby associated with their employment. This means the FCM cannot simply switch to other non-flying duties in their required minimum ODPs and they cannot be assigned another FDP until the minimum ODP requirements have been met. Based on the function the ODP performs, there are three broad categories of off-duty requirements:
those that address acute fatigue (i.e. the requirement for an ODP following an FDP)
those that address cumulative fatigue (i.e. the requirement for 36 consecutive hours off-
duty, including two local nights, in any 168 consecutive hour period)
those that are required to acclimatise a FCM to the local time (an adaptation period).
C9.2. Points to note
General
Acute Fatigue There are two types of ODP which are focused on addressing acute fatigue:
those that simply follow an FDP and allow a minimum period of recovery
those that not only follow an FDP, but also sit between or separate two FDPs, thereby
preceding a subsequent FDP.
The difference in these two types is that the ODP that also precedes an FDP must contain, or overlap the ‘prior sleep opportunity’ for the following FDP (as required by clause 1 of Appendices 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6). This distinction is important as the FCM is not just traveling to suitable sleeping accommodation to recover from the previous FDP, but is also required to use that same ODP to adequately prepare for the following FDP and travel to the place where the next FDP is to start.
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An Operator must have procedures to ensure that the ODP will be sufficiently long enough to provide for:
the required sleep opportunity (8 hours)
sufficient time for the FCM’s requirements of bodily functioning (i.e. eating, drinking,
toileting, washing and dressing)
enough time to travel to and from the suitable sleeping accommodation.
In some situations, particularly when there is a long commute time, the minimum ODP, as set out in the appendices, will not be adequate to meet all these requirements and must be extended to ensure the 8 hours’ sleep opportunity is still provided, as well as time for the other necessary requirements (as mentioned previously). It is primarily the responsibility of an Operator to ensure that enough time is available in the ODPs (both at home base and away from home base); however, it is also the responsibility of the FCM to ensure the time available is used effectively and that any issues or impediments are communicated to the Operator. It is important that an Operator does not just consider the adequacy of an ODP based on the time provided, but also gives due consideration to all the other factors they have control over (i.e. the location and quality of the accommodation that is provided or that is available to the FCM when they are away from home base). The location of the accommodation will impact on commuting time and also potentially the quality of sleep.
Example: If the accommodation is next to a noisy road or work site it will reduce the quality of any sleep the FCM can achieve. The more sleep is fragmented by waking up, the less restorative value sleep has in terms of how people feel and function the next day.
When selecting accommodation, an Operator must also consider the potential for interruptions/disruptions and the available control over such aspects as discussed in section 4.2 of the body of this CAAP.
Nine hour minimum ODP provision - applicable to Appendices 2, 3 and 4:
If the 9-hour minimum ODP provision is to be employed, an Operator must have
procedures to ensure the requirements for reducing the minimum ODP away from home
base from 10 hours to 9 hours are met prior to assigning this reduced ODP.
Where an FCM’s FDP (the last FDP) does not exceed 10 hours, their following ODP (ODP
2) may be reduced to no less than 9 hours, provided that:
the ODP undertaken immediately before the last FDP (ODP 1) was at least 12 hours
(including a local night)
the FCM is acclimatised at the start of the ODP 2
the ODP 2 is undertaken over a local night
the ODP 2 is not undertaken at home base
the ODP following the FDP after ODP 2 is at least 12 hours, including a local night.
The procedures must reflect the requirement for the FCM’s eight hour sleep opportunity to
be met in the 10 hours prior to the FDP that starts after the reduced ODP.
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Cumulative fatigue The off-duty limits that are more specific to cumulative fatigue are the requirements for 36 hours off-duty (including two local nights) in any 168 consecutive hour period as well as such longer term limits as the requirement for a number of full days off-duty in any consecutive 28 and 84 day period.
Notes:
• Appendix 5 has a variation on this requirement.
• Day in ‘days off-duty’ means the period between local midnight at home base and the subsequent local midnight at home base
An important consideration is that, in order to start an FDP, an FCM must still meet these requirements at the projected end of the assigned FDP. This means an Operator must be constantly taking into consideration the history of the FCM to determine whether the FCM can be assigned an FDP. At the end of the assigned FDP, the FCM must still have the minimum number of hours and days off-duty in the required preceding period. In the case of the minimum requirement for off-duty days, an Operator cannot assign an FDP to an FCM if the FDP:
will finish after midnight; and,
at midnight, 28 or 84 days before (as applicable), an off-duty day that is relied on to meet
the minimum number of off-duty days commenced.
The 28 and 84 day periods are a moving period, always anchored to a point in the FDP (looking backwards). Once an FDP passes through midnight, the FCM can no longer include an off-duty day of 28 or 84 days before that point. If midnight was the starting point of a 24 hour period that constituted an off-duty day, that is relied upon to meet the minimum requirement.
Trans-meridian related fatigue For Appendices 2 and 4, crossing more than two time-zones travelling east, or three time-zones travelling west increases the minimum ODP required following the FDP. While this is not a requirement for other appendices, this approach is advisable. Once an FCM crosses two or more time-zones in an FDP from a location to which they were acclimatised, their body clock is assumed to migrate away from local time at that location, and after 36 hours have elapsed so they are no longer sufficiently aligned to be classified as acclimatised. At this point, they are considered to be in an unknown state of acclimatisation and require an adaptation period to become acclimatised to a location. While this approach is not a requirement for other appendices, in the absence of something more appropriate, this approach is advisable.
Appendix 1
Acute and cumulative fatigue Appendix 1 has a different approach to minimum ODPs that reflect the different way fatigue risk is managed in this appendix:
An Operator must have documented procedures that ensure the FCM has a minimum of 12
consecutive hour’s off-duty in any 24 hour period.
The documented procedures must ensure that an FCM has a minimum of two days off-duty
during any consecutive seven day period. (This is not a reference to a seven day period
standing alone but instead, any consecutive seven day period).
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Appendix 2
Acute fatigue The minimum ODP requirement increases if the preceding FDP exceeds 12 hours, or if the FCM crosses in excess of two time zones travelling east, and three time zones travelling west. The minimum required ODP is as follows:
The ODP must not be lower than 12 hours at home base (which must be designated for
each FCM).
The ODP must not be lower 10 hours when away from home base (other than when the
specific requirements are met that allow assignment of an ODP of less than 10 hours—no
less than 9 hours).
For this appendix, the minimum ODP increases when:
the preceding FDP is longer than 12 hours (any period in excess of 12 hours requires 1.5
times that period be added to the minimum).
the FCM crosses in excess of two time zones travelling east and three time zones travelling
west (each time zone in excess of two east and three west, requires an additional hour be
added to the minimum).
An Operator must document in their operations manual the minimum ODPs that the Operator will apply to their FCMs.
These periods must not be less than those required by CAO 48.1 and may well be greater
due to the possibilities that the circumstances require a greater ODP in order to meet all
obligations and still achieve an eight hour sleep opportunity.
There must be procedures in the operations manual that state the manner in which the
minimum ODP is increased for increases in the length of FDPs and when crossing more
than two time-zones east and three time-zones west.
There is an allowable reduction to the normal minimum ODP to 9 hours in Appendix 2, if certain specific criteria, as listed in the subclause, are met (see nine hour minimum provision in General section above). It is paramount that an Operator is aware that the requirement for prior sleep opportunity before a following FDP still remains. The FCM must still have enough time to travel to and from the suitable sleeping accommodation, meet the reasonable requirements of bodily functioning (i.e. eating, drinking, toileting, washing and dressing) and get a minimum of 8 hours sleep opportunity.
Cumulative fatigue Procedures must be in place to ensure that, before beginning an FDP or standby period, the longer-term cumulative fatigue requirements will be met. These procedures must consider the following:
at the projected end of the assigned FDP or standby period, the FCM must have had at
least 36 consecutive hours off-duty (including 2 local nights) in the previous 168 hours
before commencing the FDP, the FCM must have had at least:
seven days off-duty in the 28 consecutive days before the standby or FDP commences
24 days off-duty in the 84 consecutive days before the standby or FDP commences.
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Trans-meridian flight Once an FCM has spent time in a location where the local time differs from their home base (local time) their body clock will almost inevitably begin to align itself with the local time. For Appendix 2 operations that cross two or more time zones, the operations manual requires procedures that address an FCM being in an unknown state of acclimatisation. This occurs when:
the FCM commences an FDP or ODP in a location that differs in local time by 2 hours or
more from the last location where they were acclimatised (where their body clock was
aligned with local time)
36 hours have elapsed since the start of the FDP that originated at the location where they
were last acclimatised.
Once an FCM is in an unknown state of acclimatisation they require an adaptation period to be considered acclimatised to a location. If an Operator wishes to assign FCMs in an unknown state of acclimatisation, this is possible. The operations manual must, at a minimum, reflect the following requirements:
an FCM is considered to remain in their state of acclimatisation (whether acclimatised to a
particular location or in an unknown state of acclimatisation) until they have had:
an adaptation period in a location (the adaptation location) in accordance with Table 5;
or,
an adaptation period that is:
o in a location other than home base
o in accordance with Table 5, except that this is reduced by 12 hours for each
previous ODP that:
• immediately preceded the adaptation period
• was taken at an off-duty location, which differs in local time by less than
2 hours from the adaptation location
• is an off-duty location local night.
In applying Table 5 to arrive at an adaptation period the operations manual procedures should:
determine the time zone displacement between:
the location where the FCM was last acclimatised (the original location)
each location where an FDP or ODP was commenced since last acclimatised (later
locations):
o choose the time zone displacement between the original location and whichever of
the later locations gives the greatest time zone displacement
o choose the time zone change in the Table that corresponds to the greatest time
zone displacement
o choose the direction (east or west) in which the FCM travelled and; therefore, the
greatest time zone displacement occurred under subparagraph (b) of the Order
o choose the number of hours east or west (as the case requires) that corresponds
to the time zone change chosen under subparagraph (c) of the Order.
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Table 5: Adaptation period to become acclimatised (Table 7.1)4
Time zone change (measured in time zones)
Adaptation period to become acclimatised to new location (hours)
Note: See definition of time zone
West East
2 24 30
3 36 45
4 48 60
5 48 60
6 48 60
7 72 90
8 72 90
9 72 90
10 or more 96 120
Note 1: An adaptation period under paragraph 7.4 may commence before the time when an FCM comes to be in an unknown state of acclimatisation.
Note 2: For guidance in determining acclimatisation, including examples of how an FCM becomes reacclimatised in accordance with paragraph 7.4, AOC holders and FCMs should refer to Appendix D to this CAAP.
There is ongoing debate within the scientific community about whether it is preferential for FCMs to have an extended period off-duty at an overseas location after long trans-meridian flights, or to commence the return to home base after a shorter ODP, thereby reducing the impact of being in a location where the time zone is substantially different from that at home base. Both options are currently available under Appendix 2 and procedures for either or both are acceptable. If the Operator chooses to reduce the ODP in accordance with this subclause then procedures should display an understanding of the intent of this provision and seek to minimise exposure to zeitgebers (literally: time givers), and try to keep the FCM on a schedule that fits with their sleep habits at home base. If a calculated minimum ODP exceeds 14 hours, the Operator can reduce this to 14 hours provided:
the reduced ODP is not undertaken at the FCMs home base
the FDP just completed was not extended
the FCM commences the FDP following the reduced ODP in an acclimatised state
the next ODP is a minimum of 36 consecutive hours that must include two local nights.
4 Table extracted from CAO 48.1.
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Appendix 3
Acute fatigue The minimum ODP requirement of this appendix increases if the prior FDP exceeds 12 hours. The ODP must not be:
lower than 12 hours at home base (which must be designated for each FCM)
10 hours when away from home base (other than when the specific requirements are met
that allow assignment of an ODP of less than 10 hours—no less than 9 hours).
There should be procedures in the operations manual that state:
the minimum ODPs that the Operator will apply to their FCMs:
these periods must not be less than those required by CAO 48.1, and may well be
greater due to the possibilities that the circumstances require a greater ODP in order to
meet all obligations and still achieve an eight hour sleep opportunity
the manner in which the minimum ODP is increased for increases in the length of FDPs.
These increases shall not result in a minimum ODP less than that required in the applicable
appendix under which the FDP was completed.
For this appendix, the minimum ODPs increase when the previous FDP is longer than 12 hours. Any period in excess of 12 hours requires 1.5 times that period be added to the minimum ODP. There is an allowable reduction to the potential minimum ODP to 9 hours in Appendix 3, if certain specific criteria as listed in the subclause are met (see nine hour minimum provision in Cumulative fatigue). Procedures must be in place to ensure that, before beginning an FDP or standby period, the longer-term cumulative fatigue requirements will be met. These procedures must consider the following:
at the projected end of the assigned FDP or standby period, the FCM must have had at
least 36 consecutive hours off-duty (including 2 local nights) in the previous 168 hours
before commencing the FDP the FCM must have had at least:
seven days off-duty in the 28 consecutive days before the standby or FDP commences
24 days off-duty in the 84 consecutive days before the standby or FDP commences.
Appendix 4
Acute fatigue The minimum ODP requirement increases if the preceding FDP exceeds 12 hours, or if the FCM crosses in excess of two time zones travelling east and three time zones travelling west. The minimum required ODP is as follows:
the ODP must not be lower than 12 hours at home base (which must be designated for
each FCM)
the ODP must not be lower 10 hours when away from home base (other than when the
specific requirements are met that allow assignment of an ODP of less than 10 hours—no
less than 9 hours).
For this appendix, the minimum ODP increases when:
the preceding FDP is longer than 12 hours. Any period in excess of 12 hours requires 1.5
times that period be added to the minimum ODP
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the FCM crosses in excess of two time zones travelling east and three time zones travelling
west (each time zone in excess of two east and three west, requires an additional hour be
added to the minimum ODP).
An Operator must document, in their operations manual, the minimum ODPs that the Operator will apply to their FCMs:
these periods must not be less than those required by CAO 48.1, and may well be greater,
due to the possibilities that the circumstances require a greater ODP in order to meet all
obligations and still achieve an eight hour sleep opportunity
there must be procedures in the operations manual that state the manner in which the
minimum ODP is increased for increases in the length of FDPs and crossing more than two
time-zones east and three time-zones west.
Note: These increases shall not result in a minimum ODP less than that required in the applicable appendix under which the FDP was completed.
There is an allowable reduction to the normal minimum ODP to 9 hours in Appendix 4, if certain specific criteria (as listed in the subclause) are met (see nine hour minimum provision in General section above). It is paramount that the Operator is aware that the requirement for prior sleep opportunity before a following FDP still remains. The FCM must still have enough time to travel to and from the suitable sleeping accommodation, meet the reasonable requirements of bodily functioning (i.e. eating, drinking, toileting, washing and dressing) and get a minimum of 8 hours sleep opportunity.
Cumulative fatigue Procedures must be in place to ensure that, before beginning an FDP or standby period, the longer-term cumulative fatigue requirements will be met. These procedures must consider the following:
at the projected end of the assigned FDP or standby period, the FCM must have had, at
least, 36 consecutive hours off-duty (including 2 local nights) in the previous 168 hours.
before commencing the FDP, the FCM must have had at least:
seven days off-duty in the 28 consecutive days before the standby or FDP commences
24 days off-duty in the 84 consecutive days before the standby or FDP commences.
Appendix 5
Acute fatigue Appendix 5 has a set minimum ODP that is either a minimum of 8 consecutive hours at suitable sleeping accommodation, if those 8 hours includes the hours between 2300 and 0529; otherwise, a minimum period of 10 consecutive hours off-duty. An Operator’s operations manual must have a documented procedure for ensuring the minimum ODP is allocated:
if an Operator relies on the minimum ODP being 8 consecutive hours at suitable sleeping
accommodation (including the hours of 2300 and 0529), then the procedures must ensure
the FCM will be afforded sufficient time to get to and from the suitable sleeping
accommodation, and still get an eight hour period at suitable sleeping accommodation.
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An Operator must have procedures that will ensure any extension results in the required increase to the minimum ODP:
as mentioned in the extension section for Appendix 5, each 30 minute extension to the
maximum FDP time requires one hour be added to the minimum ODP (be it 8 hours or 10
hours prior to the extension).
Cumulative fatigue Procedures must be in place to ensure that, before beginning an FDP or standby period, the longer-term cumulative fatigue requirements will be met. These procedures must consider the following:
At any point during the FDP or standby period:
the FCM must have had at least 36 consecutive hours off-duty (including 2 local nights)
in the previous 336 hours (14 days)
the FCM must have had at least 72 consecutive hours off-duty (including 3 local nights)
in the previous 504 hours (21 days).
Appendix 6
Acute fatigue For Appendix 6 the minimum ODP remains 12 hours, even when away from home base. There should be procedures in the operations manual that state the minimum ODPs that the Operator will apply to their FCMs. These periods must not be less than those required by CAO 48.1, and may well be greater due to the possibilities that the circumstances require a greater ODP in order to meet all obligations and still achieve an eight hour sleep opportunity. The minimum ODP increases when the previous FDP is longer than 12 hours. To determine the minimum required ODP the Operator must add 1.5 times any period in excess of 12 hours to the minimum ODP of 12 hours.
Cumulative fatigue Procedures must be in place to ensure that, before beginning an FDP or standby period, the longer-term cumulative fatigue requirements will be met. These procedures must consider the following:
at the projected end of the assigned FDP or standby period, the FCM must have had, at
least, 36 consecutive hours off-duty (including 2 local nights) in the previous 168 hours.
before commencing the FDP, the FCM must have had at least:
seven days off-duty in the 28 consecutive days before the standby or FDP commences
24 days off-duty in the 84 consecutive days before the standby or FDP commences.
C10. Limit on cumulative flight time
C10.1. Introduction Limiting cumulative flight time over medium and long time periods is a means of managing cumulative fatigue prescriptively by acting to reduce the capacity of an Operator to assign an FCM in an intensive manner for a sustained period. For an Operator to manage cumulative flight time they must track both the flight time the FCMs record when flying in their operations over the period in question, and the flight time that FCMs accrue during non-recreational flying over the period in question.
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For this limit to be accurately applied, an Operator must be recording flight time, in accordance with the definition of flying time in the Order, which implies the same meaning as that in the regulations. Under subregulation 2 (1) of the Civil Aviation Regulations (CAR) 1988, flight time means:
in the case of a heavier-than-air aircraft — the total time from the moment at which the
aircraft first moves under its own power for the purpose of taking-off, until the moment at
which it comes to rest after landing
in the case of a lighter-than-air aircraft — the total time from the moment at which the
aircraft first becomes airborne until it comes to rest on the ground, excluding any time
during which the aircraft is moored.
All appendices (other than Appendix 5) have the same two cumulative flight time limits:
a maximum of 100 flying hours in any 28 consecutive day period
a maximum of 1000 flying hours in any 365 consecutive day period.
Appendix 5 has a more complex approach with higher limits and a means of resetting the limits. C10.2. Points to note
Appendices 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6
An Operator’s operations manual must include:
rostering procedures and guidelines that clearly require tracking and consideration of each
FCM’s cumulative flight hours over any consecutive 28 day and 365 day period for all
FCMs operating under these appendices
a means of monitoring the number of hours of flight time for each FCM ensuring any FCM
does not exceed 100 hours in any consecutive 28 day period and 1000 hours in any
consecutive 365 day period
guidelines that are in a form that is clear and readily available to the Operator’s employees
who are involved in rostering activities as well as affected FCMs.
There may need to be procedures for FCMs who fly for another Operator. If an FCM has flown for another Operator in the previous 28 or 365 day period procedures will be required for taking these flying hours into account in assessing whether the FCM is within cumulative flight time limits. There may need to be procedures for FCMs to include in their accumulated flying record any private flying in non-recreational activities.
Appendix 5
Appendix 5 has the following cumulative flight time limits:
maximum of 50 hours in an 168 consecutive hour period (168 hours is the number of hours
in a 7 day period)
maximum of 170 hours in any consecutive 28 day period
maximum of 450 hours in any 90 day period
maximum of 1200 hours in any 365 day period.
The 28 day and 90 day limits may be reset to zero after the FCM achieves a period of seven consecutive days off-duty.
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The 365 day limit may be reset to zero after the FCM achieves a period of 28 consecutive days off-duty. For those sections of the aerial work industry that require high yearly cumulative flight times, there is a provision within Appendix 5 whereby, after a significant break, FCMs will be able to ‘reset’ their cumulative flight times. For these unique provisions to be effective, FCMs require freedom from all duty, rather than just from flying duties. Achieving the reset clauses may require adequate planning as the FCM will be unavailable over the period until the reset provision has been achieved. Operators and FCMs should be aware that, if these extended ODPs do not provide sufficient opportunity to recover from cumulative fatigue, consideration should be given to not resetting the cumulative limit.
FCMs should be informed that non-recreational flying during ODPs that are being relied
upon to reset cumulative flight time limits is not permitted.
Procedures for tracking the flying hours of all the FCMs that work for them must be
included in the operations manual. This assures that the Operator will not assign an FCM
to an FDP resulting in the FCM exceeding a cumulative flight time limit (this includes non-
recreational private flying).
C11. Limit on cumulative duty time
C11.1. Introduction Limiting cumulative duty time is a means of managing the risk of excessive cumulative fatigue by limiting the total possible duty over the mid and long term. All appendices (other than Appendix 1 and 5) have the following cumulative duty time limits:
a maximum of 60 duty hours in any consecutive 168 hour period (168 is the number of
hours in a seven day period)
a maximum of 100 duty hours in any consecutive 336 hour period (336 is the number of
hours in a 14 day period).
While Appendix 5 has no direct limit on cumulative duty, Operators need a process for tracking Appendix 5 duty if the Operator wishes to use the FCM for operations in another appendix. This is particularly challenging when considering split-duty rest periods carried out in Appendix 5 operations. Unlike other Tier 2 appendices, Appendix 5 has no facility for discounting the first 4 hours of the split-duty rest period by 50% for the purposes of determining cumulative duty limits. Operators wishing to transition FCMs into another appendix after operating under Appendix 5 need to include all time in split-duty rest periods as duty. C11.2. Points to note
Appendix 1
There are no limits on cumulative duty under Appendix 1 because it was determined that other restrictions on what was possible in terms of duty were sufficient to manage cumulative fatigue.
Appendices 2, 3, 4, and 6
An Operator’s operations manual must include rostering procedures and guidelines that clearly require tracking and consideration of each FCMs cumulative duty time over any consecutive 168 hour and 336 hour period for all FCMs operating under these appendices. This may require:
tracking duty hours that are accrued when employed by another Operator
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a means of monitoring the number of duty hours for each FCM ensuring any FCM does not
exceed 60 hours in any consecutive 168 hour period and 100 hours in any consecutive 336
hour period
guidelines that are in a form that is clear and readily available to the Operator’s employees
who are involved in rostering activities as well as affected FCMs.
C12. Limits on late night operations (LNOs)
C12.1. Introduction In all industries that have been studied, there is evidence of an increase in error rate and accidents after four late night duties or night-shifts in a week period. Late night FDPs not only require the FCM to be on duty and flying when their body is predisposed to sleeping but also it means that they did not sleep during the period when their body usually achieves the most efficient sleep. Continuing to assign an FCM late-night FDPs results in increased cumulative fatigue and requires a longer recovery period than FDPs assigned during the day. In shift work, forward rotating systems involve changing from morning shifts to afternoon shifts, and then from afternoons to nights. So-called backward rotating systems involve changes in the opposite direction (i.e. from morning shifts to night shifts etc.). Forward rotating systems are also known as delaying shift systems. They are defined this way because the change from one shift to the next involves delaying the phase of the body clock (i.e. effectively extending the day by remaining awake for longer). There is strong evidence that, in contrast to backward rotation of duty period start times, forward rotation of duty start time results in improved sleep quality and length through quicker adaption by the body. In the appendices of CAO 48.1, once an FCM is assigned an LNO FDP, and if they are assigned a following LNO FDP, it must then be assigned so that it starts more than 24 hours after the start time for the previous LNO FDP. This prevents backwards rotation in the roster and reduces the likelihood of acute and cumulative fatigue. C12.2. Points to note
General
LNOs are not possible under Appendix 1. Appendices 2, 3, 4 and 6 all have the same limits on LNOs. Appendix 5 also limits late night duties; however, this appendix does not rely on the definition of late night duty, but instead limits the number to four FDPs that can be assigned or conducted (that includes any time between midnight and 0459). An important difference between Appendix 5 and Appendices 2, 3, 4 and 6 is that Appendix 5 does not limit the total number of FDPs in the 168 consecutive hour period. Instead it specifically limits the total number of LNOs that are possible without limiting the total number of FDPs.
Appendices 2, 3, 4, and 6
An Operator must develop rostering procedures and guidelines that clearly require tracking of LNO FDPs over consecutive 168 hour periods. These procedures must also identify and track those FDPs that become LNOs due to re-assignment.
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Note: An extension to an FDP that results in an FCM finishing an FDP that was assigned to finish before 2330 and further being re-assigned to finish after 2330 is not considered an LNO for the purposes of this limit.
The operations manual must contain procedures and guidelines that:
adequately manage the roster limits on LNOs
identify within the more tactical decision making procedure (i.e. day-of-operations
decisions) the potential for the LNO provision to limit further assignment of an FDP or
standby LNO (must be in accordance with Table 6).
When rostering FCMs for a proposed FDP (even if the proposed FDP is not a LNO) the number of LNOs conducted within the week preceding the proposed FDP need to be considered. The following table shows the manner in which the number of LNOs needs to be considered alongside the number of other FDPs when determining whether the proposed FDP can go ahead. This limit on LNOs applies to Appendices 2, 3, 4 and 6.
Table 6: LNOs limits
Completed number of FDPs in 168 hour period Allowable FDP under LNOs Limits
Number of LNO FDPs Total FDPs—including LNO FDPs
Is a further FDP allowed in 168 hour period?
Can next FDP be a LNO FDP?
1 1 or more Yes Yes
2 2 or 3 Yes Yes
2 4 or more Yes No
3 3 Yes Yes
3 4 No N/A
4 4 No N/A
Note: This table does not apply under Appendix 5; however, restrictions on operations at any time between midnight and 0459 do apply.
There may be restrictions on whether a further FDP can be undertaken resulting from compliance with other subsections of CAO 48.1. There must be evidence of procedures that require that the start time for a subsequent FDP after an LNO FDP is no earlier than the start time of the LNO FDP.
Appendix 5
The operations manual must contain procedures limiting the number of FDPs that are assigned or conducted (that includes any time between midnight and 0459) to a maximum of four in any consecutive 168 hour period. Unlike other appendices, this restriction does not then limit the total number of FDPs in the 168 consecutive hour period.
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APPENDIX D Determination of acclimatisation FCMs and Operators should refer to subsection 7, which states the determination of acclimatisation. The following scenarios are examples of how these determinations apply. These scenarios are hypothetical. The ODPs are examples, not necessarily the minimum ODP required, which is determined by the relevant appendix of CAO 48.1. The scenarios do not consider cumulative duty time limits.
Scenario 1
An FCM commences an FDP in an acclimatised state in Perth (the original location). The FDP is 10 hours in duration and finishes in Auckland (4 hours’ time difference displaced east from the original location) where an ODP of 16 hours commences before the start of the next FDP. At the commencement of the ODP, less than 36 hours has passed since the start of the FDP, and therefore, the FCM remains acclimatised to Perth (refer paragraph 7.2). At the commencement of the next FDP in Auckland, only 26 hours has passed since the start of the last FDP, where the FCM was acclimatised (in Perth), the FCM is considered, by paragraph 7.2, to remain acclimatised to Perth. The next FDP is 12 hours duration and finishes in Bangkok (1 hour time difference displaced west from the original location) where an ODP commences. At the commencement of the ODP, more than 36 hours has passed since the FCM was acclimatised to the original location, and the greatest time zone displacement from the original location was more than 2 hours, so according to paragraph 7.3, the FCM is now in an unknown state of acclimatisation. The FCM will remain in this state until an adaptation period is undertaken. This does not mean that the FCM cannot undertake duty; only that FDP and ODP limits will be based on the FCM being in an unknown state of acclimatisation. In order to determine the adaptation period required to become reacclimatised, the greatest time zone displacement from the original location needs to be determined. In this case, the greatest displacement is 4 hours east; therefore, according to Table 5, 60 hours off-duty is required to become reacclimatised.
Scenario 2
An FCM commences an FDP in an acclimatised state in Bangkok (the original location). The FDP is 10 hours duration and finishes in Hong Kong (1 hour time difference displaced east from the original location) where an ODP of 12 hours commences before the start of the next FDP. As the time difference is less than 2 hours from the location where the FCM was last acclimatised (Bangkok), according to paragraph 7.1, the FCM is considered to be acclimatised to Hong Kong. For the purposes of determining acclimatisation, Hong Kong now becomes the ‘original location’. The FCM now commences an FDP in Hong Kong in an acclimatised state. The FDP is 18 hours in duration and finishes in New York (11 hours’ time difference displaced east from the original location) where an ODP of 33 hours commences before the start of the next FDP. At the commencement of the ODP, less than 36 hours has passed since the start of the FDP; therefore, the FCM remains acclimatised to Hong Kong (refer paragraph 7.2). At the commencement of the next FDP in New York, more than 36 hours has passed since the FCM was acclimatised to the original location, and the greatest time zone displacement from the original location was more than 2 hours, so according to paragraph 7.3, the FCM is now in an unknown state of acclimatisation. The next FDP will therefore be conducted in an unknown state of acclimatisation, unless the ODP prior to the FDP is increased.
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The FCM now commences the FDP in New York in an unknown state of acclimatisation. The FDP is 8 hours in duration and finishes in London (16 hours’ time difference displaced east from the original location (Hong Kong). The next FDP will be conducted in an unknown state of acclimatisation, unless an adaptation period prior to the FDP is undertaken, in accordance with Table 5. In order to determine the adaptation period required to become reacclimatised, the greatest time zone displacement from the original location needs to be determined. In this case, the greatest displacement is 16 hours east; therefore, according to Table 5, 120 hours off-duty is required to become reacclimatised in London. However, if the FCM does not have that adaptation period and commences another FDP, this FDP will be conducted in an unknown state of acclimatisation. The FCM commences an FDP in London in an unknown state of acclimatisation. The FDP is 8 hours in duration and finishes in New York (11 hours’ time difference displaced east from the original location (Hong Kong). The next FDP will be conducted in an unknown state of acclimatisation, unless an adaptation period prior to the FDP is undertaken in accordance with Table 5. In order to determine the adaptation period required to become reacclimatised, the greatest time zone displacement from the original location needs to be determined. In this case, the greatest displacement is 16 hours east (when the FCM had the OPD in London). Therefore, according to Table 5, a 120 hour adaptation period is required to become reacclimatised in New York.
Scenario 3
An FCM commences an FDP in an acclimatised state in Sydney (the original location). The FDP is 16 hours in duration and finishes in Dubai (6 hours’ time difference displaced west from the original location) where an ODP of 30 hours commences before the start of the next FDP. At the commencement of the ODP, less than 36 hours has passed since the start of the FDP; therefore, the FCM remains acclimatised to Sydney (refer paragraph 7.2). At the commencement of the next FDP in Dubai, more than 36 hours has passed since the FCM was acclimatised to the original location, and the greatest time zone displacement from the original location was more than 2 hours. According to paragraph 7.3, the FCM is now in an unknown state of acclimatisation. The next FDP will therefore be conducted in an unknown state of acclimatisation, unless the ODP prior to the next FDP is increased. The FCM commences an FDP in Dubai in an unknown state of acclimatisation. The FDP is 11 hours in duration and finishes in Paris (9 hours’ time difference displaced west from the original location (Sydney). The FCM undertakes an ODP (including one local night in Paris). The FCM then undertakes three FDPs in an unknown state of acclimatisation during daylight hours in Europe, remaining within the same time zone (Coordinated Universal Time [UTC]+1), or one time zone to the west (UTC). The ODPs between FDPs are all undertaken over local nights, and one of those was in London. Therefore, under subparagraph 7.4 (b), a credit of 12 hours for each local night is available to reduce the required adaptation period specified in Table 5. In order to determine the adaptation period required to become reacclimatised, the greatest time zone displacement from the original location needs to be determined. In this case, the greatest displacement is 10 hours west (when the FCM had the ODP in London). According to Table 5, a 96 hour adaptation is required to become reacclimatised; however, since the FCM has spent three local nights within two time zones, a total of 36 hours may be deducted from this adaptation period. Meaning, that in order to become acclimatised, an adaptation period of 60 hours is required.
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Scenario 4
The original location is Adelaide. Perth is 1 hour and 30 minutes (during non-daylight savings period) earlier than Adelaide; therefore, on arrival Perth an FCM is acclimatised to Perth. If the FCM departs Perth, for Urimqi in Western China, the FCM arrives acclimatised because Urimqi is the same time as Perth (due to China being a single time zone, although at 87.5E Urimqi would normally be at least 2 hours different from Perth). If the FCM then flies 2820 NM to Narita, the time is only 1 hour difference from Urimqi and the FCM remains acclimatised. If the FCM then returns to Perth or Adelaide, they are acclimatised to either destination. Perth becomes 2 hours and 30 minutes earlier than Adelaide (during daylight savings period) and the 36 hour period to an unknown state of acclimatisation begins at the start of the FDP in Adelaide.
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APPENDIX E Example Fatigue Occurrence Report
If you wish the contents of this form to remain confidential please tick here .
NAME: POSITION: ID NUMBER: DATE OF BIRTH HOME BASE
THIS FORM IS BEING COMPLETED IN RELATION TO FATIGUE ASSOCIATED WITH: (TICK ONE)
A lodged incident report An FDP extension A non-reported safety event A general concern regarding fatigue
WHEN DID THE EVENT OCCUR? Date (DD/MM/YY):___/___/___
Time (LOCAL OR UTC?):_____:_____
How long had you been on duty?
________HOURS _______MINS
WHAT WERE YOU DOING AT THE
TIME OF THE EVENT? At home Driving to work In flight Driving home Positioning Other________
IF RELEVANT, ON WHAT FLIGHT
DID THE EVENT OCCUR? Flight No. ___________ Route:________________
A/C type
Event sector:_________
FATIGUE DETAILS (COMPLETE PTO IF REQUIRED)
TITLE
DESCRIPTION
CAUSE
ACTION & RESULTS
SUGGESTIONS
CONTRIBUTORY FACTORS Tick all factors that contributed to the event/your general concern
COMMUTE SLEEP HISTORY
Commute
Deep night
Delay(s)
Health
Home Issues
Home rest
Hotel rest
Insufficient rostered rest time
Early to late transition
Late to early transition
Early start time
Late finish time
Long duty day
Long-term fatigue
Positioning
Roster disruption
Illness/Medication
Don’t know
Other (please add details above)
Duration of commute from home to home base; _____HRS _____ MIN Duration of commute on days off to home base (if living in alternative accommodation during the duty block) _____HRS _____ MIN
For the 72 hours prior to the reported event, record the start and finish times for all sleep periods (including naps):
Date Time (Local or UTC?)
Start / / :
Finish / / :
Start / / :
Finish / / :
Start / / :
Finish / / :
Start / / :
Finish / / :
Start / / :
Finish / / :
Tick all physical and cognitive signs of fatigue that were apparent in the 2 hours leading up to the event and any counter-measures used
PHYSICAL SIGNS
COGNITIVE SIGNS COUNTERMEASURES
NO PHYSICAL SIGNS WERE NOTED
Fidgeting
Rubbing eyes
Yawning
Frequent blinking
Staring blankly
Long blinks
Difficulty keeping eyes open
Head nodding
OTHER:________________
NO COGNITIVE SIGNS WERE NOTED
Impaired attention
Impaired memory
Negative mood
Reduced communication
Impaired problem solving
Increased risk taking
Impaired situational awareness
OTHER:________________
NO COUNTERMEASURES WERE USED
Advised colleague of fatigue risk
Coordinated workload
Increased communication
Caffeine
Food & Drink
Cockpit napping
OTHER:______________
How alert did you feel immediately prior to the event (tick one):
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Fully alert, wide awake
Very lively, somewhat
responsive, but not at peak
OK, somewhat
fresh
A little tired, less than
fresh
Moderately tired, let down
Extremely tired, very difficult to
concentrate
Completely exhausted
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APPENDIX F Hazard identification and associated procedures (Tier 2) CASA has designed a set of prescriptive limitations that are designed to broadly manage the risk of fatigue due to sleep loss, time awake, time on duty and the time of day effects. Advice within the CAAP suggests that the different workplace environments can increase or decrease the accumulation of fatigue, as can differing workload, and CASA has only provided minimal consideration of these influences within the limitations, for example, the number of sectors flown. Operators should consider their own circumstances using prior company experience or discussions with other Operators and groups so that these measures may be included within their operations manual. The following table is an illustration of what CASA considers a reasonable approach to hazard identification for an Operator without an established risk assessment process. Operators are reminded that it may be possible to reduce the identified hazard through means other than limiting flight or duty times. These are a sample of fatigue hazards which may exist for some Operators. This list is not specific to any particular operation type, but is intended to inform Operators who may not be experienced in SMS-type processes about how hazards may be mitigated for the purposes of complying with the Tier 2 Operator obligations. If an Operator has an approved SMS, the processes within the SMS could, and should, be used for the purposes of complying with those obligations.
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Table 7: Hazard identification
Identified Hazard Limitation Adjustment Policies and Practices Considerations
Flying school conducts aerobatic training which can lead to the rapid onset of fatigue
Any flight time whilst conducting aerobatic training to be factored by 1.5 when determining flight time limits for any FDP.
Maximum number of aerobatic training hours may be considered on a daily basis. This may be proportional to instructor experience.
Training provided to instructors specific to aircraft type considerations, e.g. in aircraft with bubble type cockpits or any aircraft in summer, maintaining adequate levels of hydration may be important.
Flying school conducts late night operations in summer
Instructors on late night training sorties are maintained on late night training sorties and are not required for daytime operations.
EMS operation uses night vision goggles (NVG) in operations
Any flight time whilst conducting NVG operations to be factored by 2 when determining maximum flight time limits for any FDP.
Additional training provided to FCMs on fatigue mitigation strategies specific to NVG use.
Layover port accommodation located 1 hour from airport
Minimum ODP increased by 2 hours at this port.
Layover port accommodation undergoing renovations causing sleep disruption to FCMs
Maximum FDP following an off-duty period at this accommodation reduced by 2 hours.
Flights scheduled to permit ODPs to be undertaken during times when renovations are not taking place.
Reports of FCMs being unable to achieve 8 hours sleep on layovers at a particular port where minimum off-duty period is provided
ODPs at this port increased by 1 hour. Following minimum off-duty at this port require that all FCMs complete a survey and psychomotor vigilance test (PVT) before commencing the FDP.
Only allow FCMs to be assigned one layover at this port in every 7 days.
Aerial work activity (such as firefighting and aerial survey) creates high cognitive workload
30 minute breaks provided every 3 hours during an FDP. Specific training for FCMs about recognition of fatigue in themselves, and others.
Monthly meetings with FCMs to consider fatigue issues, with policies and limitations considered.
Single pilot operations being conducted in an aircraft without an autopilot
Maximum FDP reduced by 3 hours, and maximum flight time reduced by 2 hours.
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APPENDIX G Alertness consideration table This table presents an example method to consider the fatigue risk involved when determining fitness for duty. It is called the alertness consideration table (ACT) and instructions for how to use it are provided. The ACT involves answering three questions that relate to perceived alertness, prior sleep and duty timing. Through the duty risk section, there may need to be a reference to the Operator’s SMS that will have information that addresses level of workload risk. The answers to the questions are coded and combined to enable the employee to determine what the employee may need to consider when determining whether to undertake this duty in its current form. If there is a suspected fatigue risk involved, the FCM needs to measure alertness, discuss with a supervisor whether the alertness level is suitable for this duty and consider how the risk can be effectively mitigated.
Instructions for using the ACT prior to a duty
Question 1 – How alert are you feeling? Question 1 involves the FCM rating their current alertness (ideally close to their report time) using one of the seven options on the alertness scale. The result falls into one of three bands of risk – low, moderate or high. If high risk, the FCM must consider discussing this with team members or their supervisor and may need to address the risk through applying previously defined risk control measures (i.e. extended rest periods or task rotation). If a decision is made to continue with the duty, proceed to Question 2. Question 2 – Have you had adequate sleep? Question 2 involves the FCM using accruing points based on their sleep in the prior 24 hours, 48 hours, and hours awake at the end of the duty. The points sum to produce a final score, which is categorised in terms of risk as low, moderate, or high. If the result is high risk, the FCM must consider discussing this with team members or their supervisor and may need to address the risk through applying previously defined risk control measure (i.e. extended rest periods or task rotation). If a decision is made to continue with the duty, proceed to Question 3.
Note: While 48 hours is used in this table, this is because the table focuses almost entirely on acute or transient fatigue, and the assumption is that the FCM was well rested prior to this point. If the FCM has a longer period of disrupted or restricted sleep, then they should consider this cumulative fatigue will increase the fatigue risk. An increased cumulative fatigue will increase the risk associated with subsequent shorter than required sleep periods identified in the table. FCMs should put more weight on any symptoms (response to question 1) and take a more conservative approach to any heightened risk identified by using this table.
Question 3 – What time does the duty occur? Question 3 involves the FCM classifying their duty based on the time of day that the duty occurs. The result falls into one of three bands of risk – low, moderate or high. They then continue to Question 4. Question 4 – What level of operational risk is associated with the duty? Question 4 involves the FCM classifying the level of operational risk associated with the duty.
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It is understood that the accumulation of fatigue will eventually diminish performance and increase error rate, to the point where the FCM becomes ‘fatigue impaired’, or simply too tired for the job intended. Aviation systems should be able to tolerate some human error and diminished performance capability, but very often task demands can increase, due to unforeseen circumstances. Consequently, what was previously acceptable in terms of an acceptable performance/error level now becomes unacceptable. This CAAP is about the management of fatigue risk; however, Operators need to also manage workload level. Fatigue risk interacts with other areas of human performance (i.e. as workload and task complexity) and all of these risks need to be addressed. Workload risk can be addressed through general risk management processes, contained within the Operator’s SMS. For fatigue risk, an FCM should consider what factors are associated with the tasks allocated to them prior to presenting as fit for duty. This is because it has been well researched that reduced alertness (or the accumulation of fatigue) impacts on ‘real world skills’. FCMs, teams and Operators should consider fatigue risks that may be present in conjunction with other risks, such as:
the type of task being undertaken
the nature of the airspace
weather considerations
airport demands
aircraft serviceability.
Operators and FCMs should recognise that tasks that involve cognitive performance (e.g. decision making, memory capacity) and threat and error management can potentially be poorly measured or mismanaged by an FCM who is fatigued. Using ACT, the FCM continues to the final step, in order to assist their determination of whether they may have adequate alertness to undertake the duty.
Determine the fatigue risk level and what may need to be considered when determining whether to undertake this duty
Based on the results for Questions 1-4, the FCM can use the table provided to gauge the degree to which fatigue risk may be present during this duty. Together with measured levels of alertness, FCMs can begin discussing how to manage possible risks with their supervisor and subsequently develop an effective risk management plan.
February 2015
Sleep requirements (user customisable)
Whilst it is easy to understand that adequate sleep is a prerequisite for an alert FCM, the notion of adequate sleep is subject to individual variability. This is further complicated by the tendency to overestimate the amount, and quality, of sleep we actually get. As a general guide an individual who was previously well rested requires at least 6 hours sleep in 24 hours, and 13 hours in 48 hours to remain adequately alert. An FCM can develop section 2 of the ACT to suit themselves. The blue highlighted numbers in section 2, can be individualised. If the FCM believes the numbers are too low because they generally need more sleep than the average person and increasing them by 1 hour would better reflect their sleep needs, then each of the numbers to the left should also be increased by 1 hour. A good place to start is for an individual understanding how much sleep is needed to feel well rested. This may be ascertained after a day or two of waking normally (to dissipate any accumulated sleep debt). Once this figure is recognised, then a basis is formed for suggesting what reduction from this figure over a 24 and 48 hour period may lead to the risk rising until the accumulated sleep debt becomes too much. As a general guide, if starting from a well-rested state, less than 13 hours sleep in the last 48 hours and 6 in the last 24 hours should be considered significant. It must be emphasised that the figures in this section of the tool can be tailored to account for individual needs. The average sleep needed is 7-8 hours to consistently feel well rested; however, some people may require only 6 hours and some 10 hours.
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1. How alert are you feeling? (rate just prior to start of duty) RISK RESULT
1 Fully alert, wide awake
Low 2 Very lively, responsive, but not at peak
3 Okay, somewhat fresh
4 A little tired, less than fresh Moderate
5 Moderately tired, let down
6 Extremely tired, very difficult to concentrate High
7 Completely exhausted, unable to function effectively
IF ‘HIGH RISK’ IS INDICATED CONSIDER RISK CONTROLS, SUCH AS NAPPING, TASK ROTATION OR ADVISING THE OPERATOR YOU ARE NOT FIT FOR DUTY.
2. Have you had adequate sleep? Points
i) At start of duty how much sleep will you have had in last 24 hrs? (this is value ‘x’)
x = ______hrs -------> x: ≤ 3h 4h 5h 6+h
Points: 12 8 4 0
Enter points in box
------>
ii) At start of duty how much sleep will you have had in last 48 hrs? (this is value ‘y’)
y = ______hrs -------> y: ≤ 8h 9h 10h 11h 12h 13+h
Points: 10 8 6 4 2 0
Enter points in box
------>
iii) At end of planned duty how many hours will you have been awake, minus any time allocated for a rest period at suitable sleeping accommodation, or in-flight crew rest facility when part of an augmented crew? (this is value ‘z’) z = ______hrs
iv) If y < z, subtract hours of sleep obtained in last 48 hours (y) from hours awake (z). Convert the resulting figure to points (1 hour = 1 point).
Enter points in box ------>
ADD POINTS ABOVE TO DETERMINE YOUR SCORE ------->
Score RISK RESULT
0-4 Low
5-8 Moderate
9+ High
IF ‘HIGH RISK’ IS INDICATED CONSIDER RISK CONTROLS, SUCH AS NAPPING, TASK ROTATION OR ADVISING THE OPERATOR YOU ARE NOT FIT FOR DUTY.
Table
3. What time does the duty occur? RISK RESULT
All hours of the duty occurs between 0800-2200 Low
Other Moderate
Part of the duty occurs between 0200-0600 High
4. What level of generic risk is associated with the duty? (Consider route, airports, airspace, level of crew experience, the aircraft features and serviceability and the weather conditions). RISK RESULT
Description
All considerations rated low risk Low
At least one consideration rated moderate risk Moderate
At least one consideration rated high risk High
5. Based on the results for - use the table below to determine what you may need to consider when determining whether to undertake this duty.
RISK RESULTS Example
ALERTNESS CONSIDERATIONS
High risk response to Q1 or Q2
High risk: Measure level of alertness using objective and subjective methods, discuss with your supervisor why your alertness level may not be sufficient for this duty and consider a rostering alternative to manage the risk (e.g.,
augmented crew, longer rest periods).
All Moderate with at least 1 High
Any combination of Low, Mod or High
Moderate risk: Measure level of alertness using objective and subjective methods,
discuss with your supervisor whether your alertness level is suitable for this duty and consider the use of additional mitigation strategies (e.g., napping, task rotation).
2 Low, 2 High
All Moderate
Any combination of Low or Moderate
Low Risk: Measure level of alertness using
objective and subjective methods, discuss with your supervisor whether your alertness level is
suitable for this duty and consider beneficial fatigue risk controls for this duty (e.g., caffeine
use, nutrition).
3 Low and 1 High
All Low